Earlier this year, Rajasthan Royals endured one of their toughest campaigns in recent memory. They ended IPL 2025 in ninth place on the points table.
For a franchise that has invested heavily in talent and experience, the slide was unexpected and disappointing.
Head coach Rahul Dravid appeared on Ravichandran Ashwin's YouTube podcast, where he opened up about the challenges of coaching and even poked fun at his own uncertain future with Rajasthan Royals.
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Rahul Dravid reflects on coaching challenges after IPL 2025
Speaking with Ashwin, Dravid admitted that coaching left him with little flexibility compared to his earlier stints in media and commentary.
After retirement, he enjoyed being able to pick and choose assignments. But coaching roles - whether with India or at the Under-19 level, demanded complete commitment.
"I got to pick and choose what I wanted to do. But again, the moment you get into coaching, you lose that flexibility. Especially if you’ve taken up assignments like India coaching or even an Under-19 tour," Dravid explained.
While reflecting on his coaching career, Dravid cracked a joke about his current role with the Rajasthan Royals.
"Till people wanted me to, and not sack me from jobs. After a season like this you never know what might happen," Dravid said with a smile, referring to RR's ninth-place finish.
The former India captain clarified that he remains deeply invested in coaching. Unlike commentary, which gave him enjoyment but limited involvement, coaching allowed him to feel truly connected to the game and its players.
What's next for Rajasthan Royals?
Dravid's remark underlines the pressure coaches face in the IPL - where results often dictate tenure. With just one IPL title in their history and a disappointing season behind them, Rajasthan Royals will be eager to regroup before the 2026 edition.
Whether Dravid stays on or not, the franchise's next steps will be watched closely.