(Source X)
Rahul Dravid, the celebrated batting maestro, is said to be contemplating a comeback to the Indian Premier League. Reports suggest he is in discussions with the Rajasthan Royals to take up the mantle as their next head coach. Dravid, who recently completed his tenure as the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team following the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup, is poised to bring his wealth of experience and cricketing acumen to the IPL arena once again.
“Talks are going on between RR and Dravid, and an announcement in this regard is round the corner,” The Times of India quoted a source as saying.
Dravid’s association with the Rajasthan Royals is not new, having previously served as their captain following the illustrious Shane Warne. At the age of 39, he assumed leadership in 2012, guiding the team in 40 matches, with 23 victories under his captaincy. After his stint as captain, Dravid transitioned into a mentoring role for the franchise in the 2014 and 2015 seasons. Subsequently, he took charge of India’s U-19 and ‘A’ teams, leading the U-19 squad to a triumphant victory in the 2018 World Cup.
Dravid’s journey continued as he moved to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, overseeing cricket operations. His extensive experience and coaching prowess eventually led to his appointment as the head coach of the Indian men’s team in 2021. His tenure culminated in a memorable triumph at the 2024 T20 World Cup.
In related developments, Zubin Bharucha, RR’s Director of High Performance, is currently lending his expertise to Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) coaches, as per recent reports.
“I’m assisting Sri Lanka Cricket coaches in how they are setting up practice -from the academy to the international players,” Bharucha was quoted as saying.
Uncertainty clouds the future of Kumar Sangakkara, the esteemed Sri Lankan cricketing icon presently serving as Rajasthan Royals’ director of cricket. Meanwhile, the Indian squad has touched down in Sri Lanka for a series comprising six white-ball contests, featuring three T20Is and as many ODIs slated to commence later this week. This tour marks the maiden international assignment for newly appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir.
