Former India batting coach Vikram Rathour has joined the Rajasthan Royals’ backroom staff in the same role ahead of IPL 2025, as announced by the franchise on social media on Friday (Sep 20).
Rathour will reconnect with Rahul Dravid, the Royals’ new head coach, a few months after they led Team India to its second T20 World Cup title in June. Their contracts concluded with the end of the multi-team tournament in the Americas.
Rathour has been a part of Team India as the batting coach for five years, collaborating with former coaches Ravi Shastri and Dravid, respectively.
“I look forward to contributing to the team’s vision and working toward our goal of developing top-class players for the Royals and for India, which can help in winning championships,” he added.
Dravid, who enjoyed working alongside Vikram, expressed his enthusiasm for reuniting with his former India backroom staff colleague.
“Having worked closely with Vikram for many years I can confidently say that his technical expertise, calm demeanour, and deep understanding of Indian conditions make him a perfect fit for the Royals,” Dravid stated.
“Together we have built a strong rapport guiding India to key successes and I am thrilled to reunite with him. His ability to nurture young talent and elevate players’ potential will be invaluable as we aim to further strengthen our squad and continue building a world-class team here at Rajasthan Royals” Dravid added.
However, this will be Rathour’s second stint with any franchise in the IPL, having previously worked with Punjab Kings. He also served as the director of cricket for Himachal Pradesh.
Earlier this month, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) appointed Rathour and former Sri Lankan spin legend Rangana Herath as their batting and bowling coaches, respectively, for the Sri Lanka series.
While Herath’s contract will extend until the conclusion of the India Tests, NZC appointed Rathour for the ongoing SL series. Meanwhile, Rathour and Dravid will focus on finalizing the retention list as the BCCI prepares to announce revised IPL retention rules.
