Rahul Dravid steps down as head coach of Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals on Saturday announced that head coach Rahul Dravid will step down ahead of the 2026 IPL season, after turning down a “broader position” within the franchise.

Dravid was appointed as the head coach of the Royals ahead of the IPL 2025 season.

Interestingly, the Royals announcement comes amidst rumours that skipper Sanju Samson also wants to leave the franchise.

“Rahul has been central to the Royals’ journey for many years. His leadership has influenced a generation of players, instilled strong values within the squad, and left an indelible mark on the culture of the franchise,” Royals posted in a statement on X.

“As part of the franchise structural review, Rahul had been offered a broader position at the franchise but has chosen not to take this. The Rajasthan Royals, its players, millions of fans worldwide extend heartfelt thanks to Rahul for his remarkable service to the franchise,” the statement added.

If Samson also leaves the side, it will leave the Royals in a tricky position a few months before the mini auction.

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Timing was not good at DL Finale, but I have three weeks for Worlds: Neeraj Chopra

Indian javelin throw star Neeraj Chopra acknowledged that his timing was off in the Diamond League Finals in which he finished second but he is hopeful of hitting his strides at the World Championships next month in Tokyo, where he is the defending champion.

The two-time Olympic medallist finished runner-up in the Diamond League Finale for the third time in a row as Julian Weber of Germany lifted his maiden trophy with two 90m-plus throws in a commanding show here on Thursday.

Chopra was lying third till the fifth round following his opening throw of 84.35m before his final effort of 85.01m took him to the second spot, overtaking 2012 London Olympics gold winner Keshorn Walcott of Trinidad and Tobago who ended third with 84.95m.

“The timing was not so good today (Thursday), run-up was not so good. There is something I didn’t find today, but I still have three weeks for the World Championships, and I will try my best,” Chopra said after the event on Thursday.