Rahul Dravid, one of India’s most dependable batters, is set to make a notable return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) as a head coach. Dravid is reportedly in advanced discussions with his former team, the Rajasthan Royals, to take on the role of head coach for the IPL 2025 season.
Dravid recently completed his tenure as the head coach of the Indian national cricket team, capping his stint with a triumphant win in the T20 World Cup 2024. His departure from the national coaching role comes in accordance with BCCI regulations, which prevent Indian team management from participating in the IPL. Since succeeding Ravi Shastri in 2021, Dravid had been absent from the IPL due to these restrictions.
A source close to the Times of India confirmed the ongoing negotiations between Dravid and Rajasthan Royals, indicating that an official announcement is imminent.
Rahul Dravid Set to Make Comeback for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025
This appointment would mark Dravid’s return to the Rajasthan Royals, a franchise he previously led and mentored. In 2012, Dravid, then 39, succeeded Shane Warne as captain and led the Royals in 40 IPL matches, achieving 23 wins. He also served as the team’s mentor during the 2014 and 2015 seasons before taking on coaching roles with India’s U19 and ‘A’ teams. Under his guidance, the U-19 team clinched the World Cup in 2018.
The IPL is currently preparing for another major transformation with a mega auction slated for the 2025 season, following the previous one in 2022. This auction will see teams restructuring their squads significantly, bringing in new talent and parting with several players.
Rajasthan Royals, the inaugural IPL champions in 2008, have faced challenges in replicating their early success. Despite multiple playoffs appearances, they have failed to secure another title. With Rahul Dravid at the helm, the Royals are hopeful of capturing their second championship in the upcoming IPL 2025 season.
