Rajasthan Royals Overhaul Intensifies with Bahutule and Yagnik Departures

The Rajasthan Royals continue to undergo significant changes. Following the unexpected departures of head coach Rahul Dravid and CEO Jake Lush McCrum, the team has also let go of two other crucial staff members. Meanwhile, there’s still uncertainty surrounding captain Sanju Samson, who may be considering an exit.

Cricbuzz confirms that the franchise has ended the contracts of spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule and fielding coach Dishant Yagnik. Bahutule joined the team last year after working at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

Dishant Yagnik’s long-standing association with the Royals began as a player before he transitioned to fielding coach. He recently hinted at his departure in a cryptic post. Additionally, there are signs that strength and conditioning coach Varun Ghosh has been dismissed from his role.

As previously reported by Cricbuzz, the management is embarking on a major restructuring after a disappointing last season, where the team finished ninth in the IPL standings. These coaching changes are part of a broader reorganization effort.

Kumar Sangakkara is anticipated to replace Rahul Dravid as head coach. While the franchise has not officially announced the new head coach, Sangakkara is reportedly making key decisions with input from lead owner Manoj Badale.

Sangakkara is likely to assemble his own coaching team. Trevor Penney, who was previously with the Royals, might rejoin the Jaipur-based team. Vikram Rathour, the former Indian batting coach, remains with the franchise and is believed to be collaborating closely with Sangakkara. Shane Bond continues to serve as the bowling coach for the time being.

The future of Sanju Samson with the team is still uncertain. He has formally requested to be released or traded, but no agreement has been reached yet. It remains to be seen if the Indian keeper-batter will be released for the auction or retained.

Cricbuzz has reached out to the Rajasthan Royals management for clarification.