In a strategic move ahead of the IPL 2025 season, Rajasthan Royals have appointed Vikram Rathour as their new batting coach. This decision marks a significant addition to the coaching staff, especially following the appointment of Rahul Dravid as the head coach. Rathour’s association with Dravid dates back to their tenure with the Indian cricket team, where Rathour served as the batting coach under Dravid’s head coaching role, culminating in India’s T20 World Cup victory in 2024.
Vikram Rathour, known for his meticulous approach to batting technique and strategy, brings a wealth of experience to the Royals. His role with the Indian team was pivotal in refining the batting line-up, which saw significant improvements in players’ techniques and mental approach towards the game. This experience is expected to be invaluable for a team like Rajasthan Royals, which has shown glimpses of brilliance but has struggled with consistency in recent IPL seasons.
The synergy between Dravid and Rathour is anticipated to be a game-changer for Rajasthan Royals. Dravid, with his deep understanding of the game and proven track record in developing young talents, combined with Rathour’s expertise in batting, sets a promising foundation for the team’s batting order. This duo’s previous collaboration has often been credited for nurturing talents like Sanju Samson, who has now blossomed into a key player for the Royals.
The appointment of Rathour also reflects Rajasthan Royals’ commitment to strengthening their coaching panel. With Shane Bond already on board as the bowling coach, the team now boasts a coaching setup that covers all aspects of the game with international expertise. This move is seen as a calculated step towards addressing the team’s batting frailties, especially in high-pressure situations, which have been a point of concern in past IPL seasons.
Rathour’s role will not only be to enhance individual batting skills but also to strategize the team’s approach against different bowling attacks. His task will involve working closely with the likes of Jos Buttler, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Samson, aiming to create a more robust and adaptable batting lineup. The focus will likely be on developing a strategy that can handle the diverse conditions and challenges presented by IPL’s various venues.
The excitement around this coaching setup is palpable among fans and analysts alike. The expectation is that under Dravid’s leadership, with Rathour’s specialized input, Rajasthan Royals could see a transformation in their batting dynamics. This could potentially lead to more consistent performances, which have been elusive despite having talented players in their ranks.
Moreover, Rathour’s appointment could also signal a shift in the Royals’ approach towards player development. His experience with the Indian team’s setup, where he was instrumental in the growth of several young players, suggests that the Royals might be looking at long-term player development alongside immediate IPL success.
As IPL 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on how this new coaching team molds the Rajasthan Royals. With Rathour’s strategic mind and Dravid’s calm demeanor, the team is poised for a revitalization. Fans are hopeful that this combination might just be the catalyst needed for Rajasthan Royals to reclaim their glory days, potentially leading them to another IPL title, a feat they’ve been chasing since their inaugural win in 2008.
This strategic addition to the coaching staff not only bolsters the team’s immediate prospects but also lays down a foundation for sustainable success in the years to come. The cricketing world watches with bated breath as Rajasthan Royals, under this new leadership, prepare to take on the IPL 2025 challenge.