Rahul Dravid Set for IPL Return with Rajasthan Royals
Former Head Coach’s IPL Comeback
Former India head coach Rahul Dravid is poised to return to the Indian Premier League (IPL), rejoining the Rajasthan Royals (RR). Dravid, who led the Indian cricket team to T20 World Cup glory in 2024, opted not to renew his contract with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). According to a report by the Times of India (TOI), discussions between Dravid and RR are ongoing, and an official announcement is expected soon.
Dravid’s Previous Stint with Rajasthan Royals
Rahul Dravid’s association with the Rajasthan Royals is not new. He first joined the Royals in 2011 as a player and played for three seasons. Following his playing career, Dravid took on the role of mentor for the team for two additional seasons. His tenure with RR was marked by his significant contributions both on and off the field.
A Distinguished Coaching Career
Dravid’s coaching career has been impressive. He led the India U-19 team to the 2016 and 2018 World Cup finals, winning the latter. He then took on the role of chairman at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) before becoming the head coach of the senior Indian team in 2021. Under his leadership, the Indian senior team reached the semifinal of the 2022 T20 World Cup but was defeated by England. Dravid’s tenure also saw India lose the World Test Championship (WTC) Final for the 2021-23 cycle and the ODI World Cup 2023 final at home.
Dravid’s Recent Achievements
Despite these setbacks, Dravid’s stint ended on a high note as India won the T20 World Cup by defeating South Africa in the final on June 29.
Potential Move to Kolkata Knight Riders
Earlier, there were reports that Dravid might join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as a mentor, replacing Gautam Gambhir. However, Gambhir, who had replaced Dravid as the head coach of India, will now begin his role as KKR’s mentor. Gambhir’s first assignment will be the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, which includes three T20Is and three ODIs starting from July 27.
As Dravid prepares for his return to the IPL, cricket fans are eager to see how his expertise and experience will impact the Rajasthan Royals’ performance in the upcoming season.(cricket betting sites)