Did Rajasthan Royals Just Let Go of Long-Time Fielding Coach Dishant Yagnik?
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Synopsis
In a significant shift ahead of IPL 2026, Rajasthan Royals part ways with long-time fielding coach Dishant Yagnik, marking a pivotal moment in the franchise's coaching structure. This decision follows a tumultuous IPL 2025 season, raising questions about the future of the team and its leadership.
Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan Royals part ways with fielding coach Dishant Yagnik.
- Yagnik played a key role in player development during his tenure.
- The decision follows a disappointing IPL 2025 season.
- Current coaching staff includes Vikram Rathour, Shane Bond, and Sairaj Bahutule.
- Yagnik will join Jammu and Kashmir as a fielding coach.
New Delhi, Sep 27 (NationPress) As the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) approaches, the Rajasthan Royals (RR), who were the inaugural champions, are undergoing another significant transformation within their coaching staff by parting ways with Dishant Yagnik, their long-standing fielding coach.
Yagnik, who previously represented Rajasthan in domestic cricket, joined the franchise as a player from the IPL seasons of 2011 to 2014, and transitioned to the role of fielding coach in 2018. "It’s official that RR and Yagnik have parted ways. This decision was made some time ago, but it has only recently come to light," sources familiar with the situation disclosed to IANS on Saturday.
During his tenure, Yagnik was instrumental in developing both Indian and international players within the team. This decision follows the recent departure of Rahul Dravid, who held the position of RR’s head coach after leading India to victory in the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup, yet stepped down following a disappointing IPL 2025 season.
Last season was notably challenging for RR, who ended up in ninth place, securing just four victories out of 14 matches in the league stage. With Yagnik's exit, the remaining coaching staff now consists of Vikram Rathour (batting coach), Shane Bond (fast bowling coach), and Sairaj Bahutule (spin bowling coach).
Yagnik is set to focus on his new role as fielding coach for the Jammu and Kashmir team in the forthcoming domestic season, where he played a pivotal role in their coaching staff that led the team to the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals last year.
As the mini-auction approaches, RR must also navigate the uncertainty surrounding Sanju Samson’s future with the franchise. Reports suggest that Samson is hesitant to continue with the team, compelling the franchise to reconsider their captaincy options and regroup for IPL 2026.
Additionally, IANS reports that former India left-arm spinner and national selector Sunil Joshi may join the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, potentially filling the spin-bowling coach position. Joshi has served as the spin bowling coach for the Punjab Kings (PBKS) for the last two seasons.
Point of View
The changes within the Rajasthan Royals' coaching staff reflect the shifting dynamics of professional sports teams. The decision to part with Dishant Yagnik is a strategic move aimed at revitalizing the franchise after a lackluster season. As the IPL landscape evolves, maintaining a strong coaching staff is essential for success.
NationPress
27/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Rajasthan Royals part ways with Dishant Yagnik?
The decision to part ways with Dishant Yagnik was made as part of a restructuring effort following a disappointing IPL 2025 season.
What role did Dishant Yagnik have within the Rajasthan Royals?
Dishant Yagnik served as the fielding coach for the Rajasthan Royals since 2018, after playing for the team from 2011 to 2014.
Who are the remaining members of the Rajasthan Royals coaching staff?
The remaining members of the coaching staff include Vikram Rathour (batting coach), Shane Bond (fast bowling coach), and Sairaj Bahutule (spin bowling coach).
What are the implications of Yagnik's departure for the team?
Yagnik's departure raises questions about the team's future strategies, particularly regarding captaincy and overall performance improvements ahead of IPL 2026.
Where will Dishant Yagnik be coaching next?
Dishant Yagnik will be taking on the role of fielding coach for the Jammu and Kashmir team in the upcoming domestic season.
