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Kaif: Royals' Dravid Exit Stems From Major Disagreement
19 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Mohammad Kaif suggests internal conflict led to Rahul Dravid's exit.
- Rajasthan Royals struggled in IPL 2025, finishing ninth.
- Dravid's departure is seen as a long-term detriment to the team.
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has speculated that a substantial disagreement within the Rajasthan Royals' hierarchy led to significant changes ahead of IPL 2026. Kaif suggested that unresolved issues between Rahul Dravid, Kumar Sangakkara, Sanju Samson, and owner Manoj Badale might be the cause.
Dravid stepped down as coach on October 30, declining a broader role. Kaif deems this decision premature, especially after a challenging IPL 2025 season where the Royals finished ninth. He pointed out that the team had a weaker squad during the mega auction and that Dravid deserved another chance.
While Kaif dismissed rumors of a rift between Samson and Dravid, he believes Samson's trade to CSK won't severely impact the Royals. However, he emphasized that Dravid's departure represents a long-term loss, particularly for nurturing promising Indian players like Vaibhav Suryavanshi.
