RR Bids Farewell to CEO Jake Lush McCrum Following Rahul Dravid’s Departure

Turbulence persists at Rajasthan Royals. Sanju Samson, Rahul Dravid, and now CEO Jake Lush McCrum have all left a void.

While Samson has not officially exited the team, his potential departure is a hot topic in the IPL. Dravid has already stepped down, a move confirmed by the Rajasthan Royals (RR). The franchise’s marketing head, Dwijendra Parashar, departed after the last season. Now Jake Lush McCrum has exited too.

Sources reveal that UK-born McCrum, who climbed the ranks from a junior role within the Royals to become CEO in 2021 at only 28, has informed several associates in the IPL industry of his decision to leave the Jaipur-based franchise, winners of the inaugural IPL season. Currently transitioning out of his role, he is likely to be officially released in October.

McCrum’s absence from the Royals’ auction table during the live telecast of the SA20 auction on Tuesday (September 9) highlighted his departure. Typically present, McCrum was notably missing at the Paarl Royals table, where Kumar Sangakkara, expected to return as the RR head coach, led the team’s bidding.

These exits prompt questions about internal shifts within the Royals franchise. The team is evidently undergoing a transformation after finishing ninth in the last IPL season. Dravid’s departure marked the initial high-profile exit, as he declined a ‘broader’ role, reportedly a euphemism for sidelining—unacceptable to the World Cup-winning coach.

The restructuring followed a performance review in July. The Royals won four out of 14 games, losing five close contests, including one in a Super Over. Additionally, captain Samson missed five games due to injury, compounded by Dravid’s recovery from a foot injury, affecting the team’s performance.

Future departures or continuations remain to be seen, but it is understood that batting coach Vikram Rathour, under Dravid, is likely to stay. Previously reported by Cricbuzz, Rathour was summoned to London by team owner Manoj Badale. Other coaching staff includes Shane Bond (bowling coach), Sairaj Bahutule (spin bowling coach), and Dishant Yagnik (fielding coach).

Reports suggest London-based Badale has assumed control of the franchise, apparently shifting leadership roles out of India to London. Historically praised for nurturing young Indian talent, the franchise initially seemed to consider Dravid fitting to continue this legacy.

Dravid’s sudden departure and organizational changes raise significant questions regarding the management structure, overseas leadership, and the future of Indian talent development.

Cricbuzz has sought comments from McCrum and the franchise’s media division.