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IPL 2025: Rahul Dravid is set to return to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) as head coach for the 2025 IPL season, following the conclusion of his term as India coach, which ended with a T20 World Cup victory in June 2024. Dravid has recently signed a contract with RR and is already engaging in discussions about player retentions for the upcoming mega auction.
He has a strong history with the franchise, having previously captained RR in the 2012 and 2013 seasons and served as team director and mentor in 2014 and 2015. After his stint with RR, Dravid joined the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in 2016 before becoming the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in 2019. He was appointed head coach of the Indian national team in 2021 and led them to their first ICC title in over a decade.
In addition to Dravid appointment, RR is expected to bring former India batter Vikram Rathour on board as one of Dravid’s assistant coaches. Rathour, a former India selector and part of Dravid coaching staff at the NCA, previously served as India batting coach from 2019. While Dravid will focus on RR in the IPL, Kumar Sangakkara, the franchise director of cricket since 2021, will continue with the team, overseeing RR operations in other leagues such as the Paarl Royals in the SA20 and the Barbados Royals in the CPL.
Despite a strong start to the 2023 season, Rajasthan Royals did not make the playoffs and finished fifth. They did make it to the playoffs in 2024 but were eliminated in Qualifier 2. RR last won the IPL title in its inaugural season in 2008 and were runners-up in 2022.
Trolled By Mohammed Shami For Dropping Him, Rohit Sharma And Rahul Dravid In Splits
Mohammed Shami, one of India premier bowlers, has consistently proven his worth across all formats. His prowess with the ball has made him a vital asset, particularly in Test and ODI formats. his absence from India’s playing XI in the early stages of the ODI World Cup last year raised some eyebrows. Once Shami was included in the squad following Hardik Pandya injury, he made an immediate impact, finishing as the tournament’s top wicket-taker.
At the recent CEAT Cricket Awards, Shami humorously addressed his exclusion and subsequent performance. He joked that his exceptional showing after being picked ensured that captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid had no reason to consider dropping him again.
I’m used to it, I think,” Shami said about his frequent comebacks. In 2015, 2019 and 2023, I faced similar situations. When I was given a chance, my performances, thanks to God, made sure they didn’t think of dropping me again. You could call it hard work, but I’m always ready for an opportunity. If you’re not ready, you can only run onto the field to hand out water! So it’s crucial to seize the chance when it comes.
Shami playful remarks had both Dravid and Rohit laughing along, showing their good-natured response to his humor. Since the ODI World Cup, Shami has been sidelined due to injuries. he is anticipated to be back in action for India’s upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, which starts on September 19.
Dravid Return to Familiar Grounds
Rahul Dravid association with the Rajasthan Royals began in 2012 when he captained the team for two seasons, significantly influencing its early development. After a short break, he served as team director and mentor in 2014 and 2015, focusing on young talent and strategic planning. Dravid coaching career gained momentum when he was appointed head coach of the Indian men’s team in 2021. where he was praised for his player development and skill enhancement approach. His return to the Royals as head coach is viewed as a strategic move to harness his deep game knowledge and experience, specially in the T20 format, to strengthen the franchise performance.
The Royals recent IPL performances
The Royals have had a mixed bag of performances in recent IPL seasons, often struggling to maintain consistency. The franchise has made several changes to its coaching staff and player roster in an attempt to reclaim the glory days when they won the inaugural IPL title in 2008. They reached the playoffs four times since then and finished as runner-ups in the 2022 edition.
Dravid appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective and renewed energy to the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.
IPL 2025 Auction: 4 Players RR Can retain as Per the Current ‘3+1’ Rule
- Rajasthan Royals are set to retain key players under the IPL ‘3+1’ rule as they gear up for the upcoming season.
- With strategic retentions, the Royals aims to build around a core of dynamic players for the 2025 season.
As the2025 Indian Premier League (IPL)season approaches,Rajasthan Royals (RR), the inaugural champions of the tournament, are preparing to make pivotal decisions in the upcoming mega auction. Following a dominant run in the recently concluded IPL 2024, where they displayed fierce competitiveness, teamwork, and a never-back-down attitude, RR aims to retain a core group of key players ahead of the 2025 season. With their eyes set on maintaining continuity and momentum, the franchise is likely to use the IPL’s ‘3+1’ retention rule to keep hold of their top performers.
Understanding the ‘3+1’ retention rule
The ‘3+1’ retention rule allows each IPL franchise to retain up to four players before the auction. This consists of three direct retentions, alongside the use of a Right to Match (RTM) card for one additional player. According to the rule, teams are required to retain at least two Indian players, while the option to keep a maximum of two overseas players remains open. This system enables franchises to retain a strong core group of players while building their squad around them for the upcoming season.
Rajasthan Royal probable retention of key players in IPL 2025
1.Sanju Samson: The inspirational captain
Sanju Samson, the charismatic leader of RR, has been a linchpin of the franchise for several years. Appointed as captain in 2021, Samson has steadily guided the team with skill and confidence, leading them to two playoff berths and an IPL 2022 final appearance. His consistent performances with the bat and inspiring leadership have made him one of the most valuable players in the team.
- Dynamic Batter: Known for his explosive stroke play, Samson excels in high-pressure situations. His ability to switch gears and accelerate the run rate makes him a crucial middle-order asset.
- Reliable Under Pressure: His composure in challenging situations is unmatched. Samson has consistently been one of RR’s top run-scorers, combining flair with the ability to absorb pressure.
- Inspiring Leader: Though still relatively young, his leadership has matured, and he continues to inspire his teammates both on and off the field. Samson’s calm demeanor under pressure helps him guide the team through tense moments.
2. Jos Buttler: The proven match-winner
Jos Buttler, a star player for RR, has established himself as one of the most destructive batters in the IPL. Known for his devastating performances at the top of the order, Buttler contributions have been instrumental in setting up and chasing daunting targets. His ability to single-handedly turn games in RR’s favor is a hallmark of his value.
- Explosive Opener: Buttler aggressive approach at the top of the order often sets the tone for RR innings. His ability to dominate bowlers, adapt to different conditions and pace an innings makes him an invaluable opener.
- Big Match Temperament: With numerous centuries to his name, Buttler is known for his ability to perform in critical moments. His clean hitting, particularly in the death overs, is a game-changer.
- Match-Winning Experience: Buttler’s experience and ability to thrive in crunch situations have been crucial to RR’s success. He remains one of the most dependable and explosive overseas players in the league.
3.Yashasvi Jaiswal: The rising star
Yashasvi Jaiswal, one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket, has been a revelation for RR in recent seasons. His aggressive batting style and ability to dominate during the powerplay make him a potent force at the top of the order. Jaiswal has shown consistent growth and potential, and RR will be keen to retain this rising star for the future.
