Big news: Rahul Dravid steps down as Rajasthan Royals' head coach ahead of IPL 2026

Rajasthan Royals (RR) head coach Rahul Dravid has stepped down from the position after being appointed for the role in September, 2024. This comes after the side had a dismal IPL 2025 campaign where they were only able to record four wins out of 14 matches and had finished second-last on the standings.

Dravid, who had previously captained the Rajasthan-based franchise, has left the side after serving as the head coach for just one season. In a release, RR confirmed that the former India batter declined to take 'broader position' within the franchise and decided to end his tenure as the side's head coach.

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“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 Royals said in an official statement.

“As part of the franchise structural review, Rahul had been offered a broader position at the franchise, but has chosen not to take this. The Rajasthan Royals, its players, and millions of fans worldwide extend heartfelt thanks to Rahul for his remarkable service to the franchise,” the statement added.

This shocking update comes amid rumours of Sanju Samson getting traded to another IPL franchise ahead of the 2026 season. The wicketkeeper-batter, who has captained the Rajasthan-based franchise in multiple seasons, was heavily linked with a trade to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at one stage. However according to a report by Cricbuzz, the trade won't be happening as CSK pulled out after the Rajasthan-based franchise had asked for either Ruturaj Gaikwad or Ravindra Jadeja in exchange for Samson.

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But, both the franchise and Samson are yet to respond to the rumours and it remains to be seen which team will the 30-year-old play for in IPL 2026.

Dravid's time with the Rajasthan Royals

Meanwhile, Dravid spent a total of five IPL seasons with RR. His first stint with the side began from 2011 and lasted till 2015. He featured as a player for the side till 2013 before becopming their mentor for the 2014 and 2015 seasons. His second stint began as the franchise's head coach in September 2024, but he wasn't able to last in the role for even a year and has now stepped down.