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Is Rahul Dravid's Exit From RR A Hint At His Reunion With Samson In KKR For IPL 2026?

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Rahul Dravid and Sanju Samson [Source: @AC_CricketHub/x.com, ChatGPT]Rahul Dravid and Sanju Samson [Source: @AC_CricketHub/x.com, ChatGPT]

In a major development, the Rajasthan Royals have announced that Rahul Dravid is stepping down as the team's coach ahead of IPL 2026. This comes after the Royals failed to impress under Dravid in IPL 2025, winning only four of their 14 games and finishing ninth in the points table.

Along with the departure of Rahul Dravid, there have also been discussions about Sanju Samson wanting to leave the franchise ahead of the next season. KKR showed a massive interest in Samson, which led to an opportunity for the duo to reunite with the three-time IPL champions.

Rahul Dravid In KKR?

The Kolkata Knight Riders have also parted ways with their head coach, Chadrakant Pandit. They will be looking to fill the spot quickly, and Rahul Dravid's experience could be crucial for the 2024 champions.

Shreyas Iyer's release from the franchise means KKR is going through a transition. Dravid's introduction could be perfect at this stage for the franchise. His ability to develop young talents and build a team from scratch can come in handy for the Knights.

Why KKR Might Still Try To Include Samson?

While there are talks about KKR being interested in trading in Sanju Samson. However, the latest reports suggested that the demands of the inaugural champions forced the Knight Riders out of the deal. 

If KKR appoint Dravid as the head coach of the franchise, they might look to resume their talks to bring Samson in. Since Samson and Dravid have already worked with each other, the duo can can work togther to revive the Knights.

In general, KKR do have the slot to include Samson in their side. With Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Quinton de Kock not living upto the expectations in the previous season, the presence of an Indian wicketkeeper opener will only boost their depth and variety. Additionally, his captaincy experience will help them replace Ajinkya Rahane, as there have certainly been discussions about freeing him from the role.

Conclusion

KKR is looking to restructure its squad and leadership group. With Chandrakant Pandit gone and Ajinkya Rahane at the brink of losing his captaincy, the union of Dravid and Samson in the KKR camp could be a very possible move. While the franchise can build its squad around Samson, Dravid could be the one re-strategising the move ahead and determining a path for them with his experience.