In a significant move that has excited cricket fans worldwide, Rahul Dravid is set to return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) as the head coach of the Rajasthan Royals for the 2025 season. This appointment marks a homecoming for Dravid, who has previously been associated with the franchise both as a player and a mentor.
After retiring from international cricket, Dravid transitioned seamlessly into coaching, taking on roles that have significantly impacted Indian cricket. His tenure as the head coach of the Indian national team culminated in a T20 World Cup victory in 2024, further cementing his legacy as one of the game’s greats.
Rahul Dravid’s Return to Rajasthan Royals
Dravid’s association with the Rajasthan Royals dates back to his playing days. He captained the team in the 2012 and 2013 IPL seasons and later served as the team director and mentor. His return to the Royals as head coach is seen as a strategic move to bring stability and experience to the team. Dravid’s deep understanding of the game and his ability to nurture young talent make him an ideal fit for the role.
One of the key reasons behind Dravid’s appointment is his strategic vision for the team. Known for his meticulous planning and attention to detail, Dravid is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Royals’ setup. His focus on building a strong core of young players, combined with experienced campaigners, aligns with the franchise’s long-term goals. Dravid’s involvement in player retention discussions ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction indicates his proactive approach to team building.
Dravid has been instrumental in shaping the careers of several young Indian cricketers through his work with the India A and Under-19 teams. His emphasis on mental toughness and technical proficiency has helped many players transition successfully to the senior team. At Rajasthan Royals, Dravid is expected to implement a similar approach, focusing on holistic player development.
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Rahul Dravid set to be appointed as the new Head Coach of Rajasthan Royals 🏏#Cricket #RahulDravid #IPL pic.twitter.com/ExnA8TG3QZ
— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) September 4, 2024
Support Staff
Joining Dravid at the Royals will be Vikram Rathour, who has been part of Dravid’s coaching staff with the Indian national team. Rathour, known for his expertise in batting coaching, will play a key role in enhancing the team’s batting performance. The duo’s successful partnership at the national level is expected to translate well into the IPL, providing the Royals with a strong coaching setup.