Kumar Sangakkara replaces Rahul Dravid at RR, decides Sanju Samson’s future in one stroke

Legendary Indian batter Rahul Dravid decided to step down as the head coach of Rajasthan Royals (RR), which came as a surprise to many. Former Sri Lankan skipper Kumar Sangakkara is likely to take charge of the role, while wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is set to continue as captain despite trade rumors.

Rahul Dravid and Rajasthan Royals endured a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, managing only four wins in 14 matches to finish ninth in the table. The former India coach had joined the franchise after guiding the national team to the 2024 T20 World Cup title, but ended his contract after just one season.

Despite working through the season on crutches due to a knee injury, Dravid was unable to spark a turnaround for the Jaipur-based outfit.

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Rahul Dravid Steps Down from Rajasthan Royals Amid Uncertainty Over Sanju Samson’s Future

Rahul Dravid left Rajasthan Royals amid uncertainty over Sanju Samson’s future with the franchise. Samson, who missed part of IPL 2025 due to injury, was reportedly unhappy with the team’s situation and had been linked with other franchises ahead of the trade window.

The Royals had offered Dravid a broader role, but he declined and chose to leave the head coach position. Within the franchise, opinions were split; some wanted Samson to stay on, others backed Riyan Parag, while a third group favored Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Although Dravid and Samson had occasional disagreements, their relationship was not broken. However, Samson’s stance and the divided views on leadership are believed to have played a major role in Dravid’s exit.

Kumar Sangakkara Frontrunner to Replace Rahul Dravid as Rajasthan Royals Head Coach

Rahul Dravid’s departure has opened the door for Kumar Sangakkara to return as the Rajasthan Royals’ head coach. Dravid joined the Royals ahead of IPL 2025, taking over from the Sri Lankan legend.

According to a report by CricBlogger, Sangakkara is the frontrunner to replace Dravid. Talks between the Royals and Sangakkara are progressing well, and an official announcement of his appointment could be made in the near future.

"Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara is likely to be named as the new head coach of Rajasthan Royals, replacing India stalwart Rahul Dravid," sources told CricBlogger on Monday.

Sanju Samson Likely to Captain the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026

The report added that Sanju Samson will continue to captain the Royals in the upcoming IPL season, with the management showing full trust in his leadership since he first took charge in 2021. The franchise believes that he and Kumar Sangakkara will give the team the balance they need to perform consistently.

At the same time, there are murmurs about VVS Laxman possibly stepping into the IPL coaching role. Laxman, currently working with the National Cricket Academy, has not received any confirmed offers.

However, he may be open to a new challenge at the franchise level. If such a switch happens, Dravid would rejoin the National Cricket Academy.

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