Reason Behind Dravid's RR Exit Revealed: Internal Rift, Captaincy Row & “Punishment Promotion” Sparked Resignation

Was Dravid sidelined in key team decisions? Reports suggest rising friction with RR’s leadership over captaincy and strategy.

Rahul Dravid’s Unexpected Exit: What Really Happened?

In a surprising move, Rahul Dravid has stepped down as head coach of Rajasthan Royals (RR) after just one season into his multi-year contract. While the official statement from the franchise claims he was offered a “broader role”, sources close to the matter indicate it was more of a “punishment promotion”—a strategic sidelining.

“When a head coach is offered a broader role in IPL, it usually means stepping away from core team-building decisions,” said a former IPL support staff member.

The Internal Tensions at Rajasthan Royals

Here are the major reported reasons behind Dravid’s departure:

RR allegedly planned to reduce Dravid’s influence in the team’s core decision-making despite offering him a higher designation.
The departure of Sanju Samson, long-time RR captain and Dravid’s protégé, raised serious questions.
Riyan Parag was reportedly favored for full-time captaincy, despite Yashasvi Jaiswal and Dhruv Jurel being seen as stronger candidates.

Players in Focus: Captaincy Controversy

Riyan Parag

2024 IPL: 573 runs at 150 SR with 4 half-centuries
2025 IPL: 393 runs, 166+ SR, led team in Samson’s absence
Strong fan following in Northeast, especially Guwahati

Yashasvi Jaiswal

More consistent and accomplished at the international level
Yet to be tested as a leader

Dhruv Jurel

Touted as a future leader
Missed Duleep Trophy captaincy due to illness

Questions have been raised about why Parag is being preferred despite having more accomplished players in the squad. Sources believe Dravid may not have supported this leadership direction, possibly leading to his disillusionment.

Strategic Interests vs Team Building

The Royals’ North-East expansion strategy, including Guwahati’s Barsapara Stadium as a secondary home ground, may have influenced the franchise’s decision to back Riyan Parag.

However, cricket experts argue that marketing strategies should not overshadow merit-based selections, especially when team performance is at stake.

Dravid Remains Silent, But Signals Are Loud

True to his reputation, Dravid has not made any public comments about his resignation. But insiders suggest growing discomfort with RR’s internal structure and key choices made without his consensus.

Final Thoughts: Was It Dravid’s Decision or Circumstance?

While Rajasthan Royals attempted to position Dravid’s exit as a career progression, the reality appears more complex:

“Punishment promotion” sidelining him from real influence
Disagreement on captaincy direction
Exit of trusted players like Sanju Samson
Rising internal politics amid poor team performance in IPL 2025

Rahul Dravid’s exit from Rajasthan Royals highlights deeper internal issues and leadership disagreements. His departure could mark a major shift in the franchise’s future direction.