As Rahul Dravid bade farewell as a coach of the Indian men’s cricket team in June this year, he hilariously asked the media to help him find a new job. Within a couple of months of his appeal, Dravid’s request may be coming to a successful closure. As per media reports, Dravid is likely to join the Rajasthan Royals (RR) as head coach. The speculations have taken root as Kumar Sangakkara’s name for the next England men’s white-ball head coach is being considered.
Rahul Dravid’s Tenure as a Coach
Rahul Dravid had served as a mentor and later head coach of Rajasthan Royals before joining the BCCI set-up in the past. Dravid also represented RR as the captain towards the end of his career as a cricketer. The 51-year-old joined the BCCI set-up, first as the coach of the Indian U-19 team and later went on to become the head coach of the senior Indian men’s team. His tenure with the Indian team began in November 2021 and ended with a hard-sought ICC trophy in June 2024.
The former Indian cricketer could never win an ICC trophy during his career. However, his dream was fulfilled as a coach by Rohit Sharma-led the Indian team as they clinched the T20 World Cup 2024 after a stupendous win against South Africa. Usually seen as a calm and restful personality, Rahul Dravid was seen vehemently enjoying India’s triumph in the T20 World Cup. During his coaching tenure, he had come this close to winning an ICC event earlier also just a few months ago. India was defeated in a home World Cup final by Australia in Ahmedabad on November 19, 2023. However, the victory in the T20 World Cup final made the pain less severe for Rahul Dravid and India.
Why Kumar Sangakkara is highly sought for England’s Role
The post of RR head coach has been vacant since 2021 as former Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara has served in the capacity of Director of Cricket for the franchise. Sangakkara is now reportedly sought for the high-profile role of England’s white bowl coach after the departure of former head coach Matthew Mott.
One of the most significant reasons for his name popping up for the role is Sangakkara’s close association with English white-ball captain Jos Buttler, who also plays for Rajasthan Royals. He also shares a close bond with England Cricket’s managing director Rob Key. Also, the former Sri Lankan batter never rejected the idea publicly.
With a probable mega-auction around the corner for the next season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), a decision on Rahul Dravid is expected soon from the Royals franchise. England Cricket Board (ECB) has not commenced the selection process for the post of head coach. “There will be an interview process at some point but there is no shortlist as of now,” read an official statement from the board.
