Rajasthan Royals' head coach Rahul Dravid has joined the team's pre-season camp ahead of IPL 2025, despite suffering a leg injury.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to begin on March 22, and all teams are actively preparing. Rajasthan Royals is no exception, but an unexpected setback came when visuals surfaced of Dravid arriving at the camp in Jaipur on crutches.
The former India and Rajasthan Royals captain sustained the injury while playing a club match in Bengaluru last week. Despite this, his determination remained unshaken as he made his way to the training session, wearing a cast on his left leg.
The franchise shared an update on social media, confirming Dravid's injury and reassuring fans that he is recovering well. They posted a photo of Dravid in a leg cast with the caption, “Head Coach Rahul Dravid, who picked up an injury while playing cricket in Bangalore, is recovering well and will join us today in Jaipur.”
In another post, Rajasthan Royals uploaded a video of Dravid arriving for training, prompting fans to praise his dedication. Many social media users expressed their admiration, with one commenting, “Never seen a coach getting injured. Anything for the team!”
Injury Sustained During Club Match
Dravid's injury occurred during a KSCA Group I, Division III league match on February 22, where he played alongside his son, Anvay, for Vijaya Cricket Club (Malur). Batting at No. 6, he scored 10 runs off eight balls before being dismissed by spinner AR Ullas. The father-son duo put up a brief 17-run stand before Dravid's dismissal.
In the semifinal match against Jayanagar Cricketers, he once again took to the field when his team was struggling at 12/3. However, just two deliveries into his innings, the 52-year-old appeared uncomfortable, showing signs of pain in his leg. He continued playing, forging a crucial 66-ball, 43-run partnership with Anvay before his injury forced him off the field. Despite his courageous effort, Vijaya Cricket Club failed to secure a victory in the semifinal.
Rajasthan Royals' Campaign in IPL 2025
After attending Rajasthan Royals' pre-season camp in Guwahati, Dravid is now in Jaipur as the team gears up for their IPL 2025 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Rajasthan Royals, winners of the inaugural IPL in 2008, reached the final again in 2022. Last season, they finished third in the league stage but lost to Sunrisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2. With Dravid's experience and leadership, the team will aim to make a strong impact in the upcoming season.