Just days after head coach Rahul Dravid’s unexpected exit, Rajasthan Royals faced another high-profile departure.
Rajasthan Royals in Turmoil Ahead of IPL 2026
The turbulence within the Rajasthan Royals camp shows no signs of easing. Just days after head coach Rahul Dravid’s unexpected departure, another high-profile exit has shaken the franchise, sending shockwaves through the setup ahead of the next IPL season. Speculation also continues over captain Sanju Samson’s potential departure before the mini auction later this year.
The chain of events began earlier this summer when reports emerged that Samson requested the Royals to release or trade him ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Rumours intensified as media claimed the franchise was exploring trade options, with Chennai Super Kings reportedly expressing interest, though negotiations quickly stalled. Shortly after, Dravid’s exit was officially announced by the Royals. The upheaval follows previous departures, including head of marketing Dwijendra Parashar at the end of the last season, and now CEO Jake Lush McCrum, highlighting ongoing instability within the franchise.
Rajasthan Royals CEO McCrum to Exit Amid Franchise Shake-Up
According to a Cricbuzz report, McCrum had informed other IPL franchises and industry colleagues of his decision to step down. McCrum joined the Royals in a junior role, later moved into the Operations wing, and was elevated to CEO by 2021 at just 28. He is expected to be relieved of his duties by October.
Rumors of his exit surfaced after his absence from the Paarl Royals table during the SA20 auction, where former Sri Lanka cricketer Kumar Sangakkara—speculated to return as head coach for the next IPL season—took the lead.
The twin exits, coupled with ongoing speculation about Sanju Samson, have raised questions about the Royals’ internal dynamics. Reports indicate the changes began after a team performance review in July, following Rajasthan’s disappointing ninth-place finish in the IPL, winning only four of 14 league games.
