All over! Rahul Dravid And Rajasthan Royals Part Ways Ahead Of IPL 2026

Rahul Dravid has decided to step down as Rajasthan Royals (RR) head coach ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, the franchise announced on August 30 (Saturday). He was, in fact, offered a "broader position", but the former India skipper has decided not to take that up, thereby ending his association with the franchise.

"Rahul has been central to the Royals' journey over many years. His leadership has influenced a generation of players, built strong values within the squad, and left an indelible mark on the culture of the franchise. The Rajasthan Royals, its players, and millions of fans worldwide extend heartfelt thanks to Rahul for his remarkable service to the franchise,” the franchise said in a statement.

"As part of a recent structural review, the franchise had offered Dravid a broader position, but he opted not to take up the role," the statement added.

Dravid took up the role after guiding India to the T20 World Cup title in the Caribbean last year, as the head coach of the side. In his only season in charge as head coach of the Royals, they finished a disappointing ninth, after winning just four out of their 14 matches. 

As a player, Dravid led RR in 2012 and 2013 and was also their team mentor during IPL 2014 and 2015.