The former captain of the Indian cricket team, Rahul Dravid, is back in the IPL, this time as head coach of the Rajasthan Royals. It was after his successful run with the national team, where he led them to victory in the T20 World Cup 2024, that he announced his resignation from the role and then went on a short break before returning finally to RR, the same franchise where he has played a lot of cricket, also mentoring players.

In a video shared on the official account of RR on X, Rahul Dravid was seen meeting with the non-playing staff of the team. Witty as ever, he says, “So this is where the IPL is won,” as he looks ready to plot the Royals’ path to victory. The Royals have always traditionally looked a promising outfit and then blown it at crucial moments.

WATCH – Sarfaraz Khan Shines With Five Consecutive Boundaries In Duleep Trophy Showdown

Under the leadership of Sanju Samson, they did make it to the final of the 2022 edition of the IPL but fell short against the Gujarat Titans. This season, having missed out on playoff spots by finishing fifth, they reached the playoff stage in 2024 but were taken out by the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the second eliminator.

Right into the thick of things from Day 1! 👊 pic.twitter.com/J3KSxkhnBI

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) September 7, 2024

It is now the turn of the mega auctions ahead of IPL 2025, when Dravid and his team are ready to assemble an altogether different squad. They will bring fresh talent and work out the problem areas. The already existing rapport between Samson and Dravid, besides Dravid’s wide experience in leading Indian cricket across formats, could hold the magic wand for RR’s transformation into a title-winning outfit.

WATCH – Dhruv Jurel Shines With Sensational Diving Catches In Duleep Trophy 2024

His return is expected with much hope by both fans and experts, as many believe his strategic acumen and leadership will play a defining role in helping the Royals inch closer to their maiden IPL championship.