After successfully leading the Indian team to victory in the T20 World Cup 2024 as head coach, Rahul Dravid is reportedly set for a new adventure in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Having completed his tenure as head coach, Dravid has been linked with several IPL franchises. Initially, there were reports suggesting he might join Kolkata Knight Riders, particularly after Gautam Gambhir left the franchise to take over Dravid’s role as India’s head coach. However, it is now reported that Dravid is in discussions with his former IPL team, Rajasthan Royals.
“Talks are going on between RR and Dravid, and an announcement in this regard is round the corner,” a source told the Times of India.
While Dravid looks for a new challenge, Gambhir has already started his tenure as the head coach of the Indian team, traveling to Sri Lanka with the squad for their white-ball series. Gambhir acknowledged the significant expectations placed on him, given Dravid’s achievements with the Indian team.
Following India’s T20 World Cup win over South Africa, Dravid humorously mentioned being ‘jobless’ soon and asked reporters if they had any offers. Given his vast experience and talent, it’s no surprise that IPL franchises are eager to have him on board.
Dravid chose not to continue as India’s head coach to avoid spending 10 months a year traveling and being away from his family. The IPL, however, only requires a 2-3 month commitment, which is more appealing to him.
Dravid has previously worked as a mentor and coach with IPL teams, including a stint as coach of the Delhi Daredevils until 2017, which he left due to a ‘conflict of interest.’ After his IPL coaching career, Dravid coached India’s junior teams, such as the Under-19 and India A teams.
He most recently served as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru before taking the role with the Indian team in 2021.
Now linked with the Rajasthan Royals, it will be interesting to see what role the former India head coach will take on with the franchise.
