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Vikram Rathour Joins Rajasthan Royals as New Batting Coach
In a strategic move aimed at strengthening their coaching team, Rajasthan Royals have appointed Vikram Rathour as the new batting coach for the upcoming IPL seasons. This announcement comes shortly after the high-profile hiring of Rahul Dravid as the team’s head coach, signaling an exciting new era for the Royals. Dravid, who led India to T20 World Cup glory in his last coaching assignment, will once again be working closely with Rathour, as the duo looks to elevate the Royals to new heights in the IPL.
Vikram Rathour previously served as India’s batting coach under Dravid’s leadership, playing a critical role in shaping India’s young batting core. His appointment at Rajasthan Royals reunites him with Dravid, as the team aims to replicate their success with the Indian national team. Although Rathour’s international playing career was brief, his coaching career has been impactful, earning him a reputation for nurturing and developing future cricket stars.
Dravid Enthusiastic About Rathour’s Appointment
Rahul Dravid was full of praise for Rathour’s arrival at the Royals. “Vikram’s technical expertise, calmness under pressure, and understanding of Indian conditions make him a fantastic addition to our coaching staff,” said Dravid. “We share a strong bond built during our time with the Indian team, guiding them to major successes, and I am excited to continue that journey here at Rajasthan Royals. Vikram’s ability to groom young talent and maximize their potential is exactly what we need to push this team to the next level.”
Dravid’s optimism is grounded in his and Rathour’s successful tenure with the Indian team, particularly in overcoming a long ICC trophy drought by securing the T20 World Cup title. With the Royals, they face a similar challenge: Rajasthan Royals have not won an IPL title since their inaugural triumph in 2008. The team’s last significant achievement was in 2022 when they finished runners-up to the Gujarat Titans.
Aiming for IPL Glory with Fresh Vision
Rathour, excited about his new role, echoed Dravid’s sentiments. “It’s an honor to join the Rajasthan Royals family. To work again alongside Rahul and with such a promising group of young cricketers is thrilling. I am eager to contribute to the vision of the team and help build world-class talent, not just for the Royals but for Indian cricket,” said Rathour. “Together, we are focused on bringing out the best in every player and ultimately aiming for championship victories.”
Both Rathour and Dravid share the goal of building a championship-winning squad, a task that they successfully accomplished during their stint with India. With Sanju Samson leading the side and a strong young core, the Royals have the potential to add to their trophy cabinet under this new coaching leadership.