The series of changes within the Rajasthan Royals continues ahead of IPL 2026. Key players and management figures have successively decided to part ways with the team.
SPORTS NEWS: The Rajasthan Royals franchise has been consistently in the headlines ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Significant changes are being observed within the team. Following Captain Sanju Samson and Coach Rahul Dravid, CEO Jake Lush McCrum has also decided to step down from his position.
Previously, Marketing Head Dwijendra Parashar had also separated from the team. These continuous resignations indicate that the turmoil within the franchise has reached its peak.
McCrum was part of Rajasthan Royals for 8 years
Jake Lush McCrum, who was born in Britain, had been associated with Rajasthan Royals for the past eight years. He began his career with the franchise at a junior level and later became part of team operations. In 2021, at the young age of 28, he was appointed as the CEO of Rajasthan Royals. His youthful leadership abilities and strategic thinking brought him into the spotlight.
However, he has now informed some of his close associates that he will be leaving the post soon. According to reports, McCrum will officially step down from his position by October 2025.
McCrum was absent from the SA20 auction
McCrum's absence at the SA20 auction held on September 9 further fueled speculation about his future. He was typically seen at the auction table for Paarl Royals (which is an associate franchise of Rajasthan Royals). This time, however, Kumar Sangakkara was in complete command. This is why it is speculated that Sangakkara might return as the Head Coach of Rajasthan Royals once again.
Following Jake Lush McCrum's resignation, the question is echoing in the minds of the cricket fraternity and fans: what exactly is happening within the Rajasthan Royals franchise? The team's performance in the previous season was extremely disappointing, winning only 4 out of 14 matches and finishing 9th in the points table. Following this, a season review meeting was held in July 2025, and the series of changes began from then.
Captain Sanju Samson also expressed his desire to distance himself from the franchise, although he has not officially left the team. On the other hand, Coach Rahul Dravid had already stepped down. Now, the departure of the CEO indicates that a major restructuring process is underway within the management structure of Rajasthan Royals.
