Rahul Dravid has quit as head coach of Rajasthan Royals (RR), only a year after rejoining the franchise on a multi-year contract. His decision has placed the team under intense scrutiny.

The Royals released a statement on Saturday, saying Dravid left by “personal choice” even though he was offered a “broader role.” However, reports point to deeper issues. They suggest a possible power struggle over leadership and Dravid’s disapproval of several key strategic calls, especially around the team’s next captain.

Reunion ends abruptly after poor season

Dravid, 52, had returned to RR before the 2024 season. It marked his comeback to the team he once represented as a player (2011–2013) and later guided as mentor and director.

Despite his reputation as one of cricket’s sharpest thinkers and his success as India’s T20 World Cup-winning coach, his second stint with the Royals ended abruptly. The franchise endured a poor 2025 IPL season, finishing ninth on the points table.

“Punishment promotion” offered?

RR’s official note said Dravid had been offered a bigger position as part of a structural review. But, according to PTI, this so-called promotion was actually a way to push him aside. The role excluded him from core decisions such as squad building and captaincy appointments.

Rift over captaincy choice

At the centre of the tension lies the Royals’ plan to groom Riyan Parag as their next captain. Sanju Samson, the current skipper, struggled with injuries and form this year, and his exit appears likely.

Parag filled in as captain during Samson’s absence but failed to impress with either his batting or tactical leadership. In 2024, he scored 573 runs at a strike rate of nearly 150. But in 2025, he managed only 393 runs, though at a higher strike rate of 166. His leadership skills, however, did not improve much.

Despite that, the RR management reportedly wants to back him. They believe his popularity in the North East, especially in Guwahati — the team’s second home ground — makes him vital for branding and outreach.

Dravid’s emphasis on merit

This reasoning likely clashed with Dravid’s philosophy. Known for his focus on merit and long-term planning, Dravid reportedly felt that Yashasvi Jaiswal, a proven India international and IPL performer, was a stronger leadership option.

The presence of Dhruv Jurel, another emerging India player and seen by many as a future leader, made the captaincy debate even more complicated. Jurel was recently chosen to lead Central Zone in the Duleep Trophy but had to withdraw due to illness.

Samson’s uncertain future adds to rift

Sanju Samson’s expected departure is believed to have been a turning point. Dravid has worked closely with Samson during his India A and national team career. He is known to be a strong supporter of Samson both as a player and a captain.

“Dravid has always backed Sanju — as a player and a leader. To see the team planning its next phase without much clarity on Sanju’s future likely added to his discomfort,” a source familiar with the matter said.

Dravid silent, Royals under scrutiny

As usual, Dravid has chosen silence. He has not commented publicly on his decision. But the timing of his exit, right after one turbulent season, and reports of disputes over captaincy raise serious questions about the Royals’ internal management.

Letting go of a coach of Dravid’s calibre — especially so soon after he guided India to T20 World Cup victory — has stunned many observers.

For the Royals, the challenge now is twofold: they must appoint a new head coach and resolve their leadership dilemma. Whether they stick with Riyan Parag or turn to Jaiswal or Jurel will shape the team’s future — and also determine how fans judge the franchise’s handling of one of cricket’s most respected figures.