Rajasthan Royals Continue Backroom Overhaul as Bahutule, Yagnik Exit

The Rajasthan Royals’ sweeping off-season overhaul shows no signs of slowing down, with the franchise parting ways with two more members of its coaching staff — spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule and fielding coach Dishant Yagnik — amid continuing uncertainty surrounding captain Sanju Samson’s future.

The exits come in the wake of high-profile departures, including head coach Rahul Dravid and CEO Jake Lush McCrum, as the franchise attempts to restructure after a disappointing 2025 IPL campaign, which saw the team finish ninth in the standings.

Cricbuzz has confirmed that Bahutule, who joined the Royals just last year after a stint at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), and Yagnik, a long-time associate of the franchise both as player and coach, are no longer part of the setup. Yagnik had recently hinted at his departure via a cryptic social media post. There are also indications that strength and conditioning coach Varun Ghosh has been relieved of his duties.

The overhaul is widely believed to be part of a broader strategic reset by the franchise following last season’s underwhelming performance.

Sangakkara Steps In as Key Decision-Maker

While a formal announcement is awaited, Kumar Sangakkara is expected to take over as head coach, replacing Dravid. The Sri Lankan legend, who previously served as Director of Cricket, is reportedly now making key decisions in tandem with lead owner Manoj Badale.

Sangakkara is likely to bring in his own coaching team. Trevor Penney, who has previously worked with the Royals, could return, while Vikram Rathour, the former India batting coach, is understood to be continuing in his role and working closely with Sangakkara. Bowling coach Shane Bond remains with the team for now.

Uncertainty Over Samson's Future

Meanwhile, the future of Sanju Samson, the franchise's long-time captain, hangs in the balance. As previously reported by Cricbuzz, Samson has formally requested to be released or traded, but no agreement has yet been reached with any other franchise.

Whether Samson is retained or enters the upcoming auction remains one of the most significant unresolved issues for the Royals as they prepare for the 2026 IPL season.

With sweeping changes across leadership, coaching, and potentially the playing group, the Royals appear to be heading into a transformative phase — one that could redefine the direction of the franchise in the seasons to come.