The Rajasthan Royals (RR) are continuing to make coaching changes in preparation for the IPL 2026 season. Following a dismal IPL 2025 season, the team has chosen to part ways with spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule and long-serving fielding coach Dishant Yagnik. Head coach Rahul Dravid and CEO Jake Lush McCrum both resigned earlier this year.
The franchise had one of its worst seasons in recent memory, finishing eighth in the points standings with just four wins in 14 games. The team’s disappointing performance prompted a thorough evaluation of its structure, from leadership to coaching staff. The franchise has already experienced several departures, with Dravid, who took over as head coach after India won the T20 World Cup in 2024, leaving after only one season. The former India batter and coach had previously served as the Royals’ captain and mentor, and his departure was seen as a significant blow to the franchise’s stability.
Sairaj Bahutule, who joined the Royals last year after training at the National Cricket Academy, has been relieved of his duties.
His time with RR was brief, and the team is currently looking for a new spin-bowling coach to take over before the next season. Meanwhile, Yagnik had been involved with the franchise for more than a decade. In 2018, the former RR wicketkeeper-batter took on the role of fielding coach, working closely with Indian and international players.
Vikram Rathour, Shane Bond to continue with their roles
According to a Cricbuzz report, strength and conditioning coach Varun Ghosh has been let go. Furthermore, sources suggest that Kumar Sangakkara, who is set to return as head coach, is keen on building his own coaching group. Names such as Trevor Penney and Sunil Joshi are being discussed as potential additions to the backroom staff, while Vikram Rathour (batting coach) and Shane Bond (fast-bowling coach) are expected to continue.
Apart from the coaching staff, current captain Sanju Samson has reportedly asked to be released or traded ahead of IPL 2026, though no final decision has been made. If Samson departs, the Royals will be forced to appoint a new leader at a time when the franchise is already undergoing significant restructuring. With young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, and Dhruv Jurel in their ranks, the management will need to make a viable decision.
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