Despite the temptation of turning to proven and experienced individuals for quick results in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Rajasthan Royals have never shied away from taking the road less travelled.
The Royals, with the title-winning campaign under Shane Warne back in the inaugural season in 2008 as the blueprint, have embraced a unique culture since the early days of the IPL - one built on backing talent, regardless of age.
Current head coach Rahul Dravid believes that it’s the same trait of putting unwavering faith in potential and eventually turning it into performance which has defined the Royals’ identity as a team over the years.
Whether it’s Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag or Dhruv Jurel, the Royals’ track record of identifying and nurturing talents to their full potential stands unmatched.
“Since the early years, we have always tried to identify and develop - not necessarily just young talent - but those who are probably not as recognised,” Dravid told Sportstar.
It was the same philosophy that led to the discovery of ultimate late bloomer Pravin Tambe, who made his IPL debut for Rajasthan Royals in 2013 at the age of 41 years and 212 days.
“I wouldn’t call Pravin Tambe young, right? He was someone who got into the franchise. ‘Young’ is, of course, just one operative word, but it’s about identifying talent that has probably not been seen by many,” Dravid said.
In 31 matches for the Rajasthan Royals, Pravin Tambe claimed 35 wickets at an average of 22.51 and an economy of under seven. The leg spinner also picked up a hat-trick against KKR in 2014.
On the other end of the age spectrum, there’s Vaibhav Suryavanshi, just 14, who’s currently waiting in the pipeline. The Royals didn’t let the young Vaibhav’s age hold them back from making the teenager the youngest player to ever land an IPL contract.
Dravid, for his part, is relishing the challenge of nurturing another potential star of Indian cricket.
“Working with junior cricket at the NCA and the Under-19 level has definitely helped me connect better with young players. Every cricketer is different. At one time, there was Riyan Parag, Sanju and Yashasvi Jaiswal, and now we have youngsters like Vaibhav Suryavanshi,” Dravid noted.
“The players keep changing, but my experience at the NCA and with U-19 cricket has been invaluable. I’ve really enjoyed that side of coaching — it has taught me a lot as well,” the former Royals player added.
What’s clear is that Rajasthan Royals see their role as more than just a cricket team. There’s a clear framework that runs through the Royals’ backroom setup as well.
“A large part of the franchise’s mission is not only to develop talent on the cricket field but also beyond it,” Dravid shared.
“Even when you look at our marketing, sales, media, and digital teams, many of them are filled with young talent that has gone on to make a difference. You often bump into people outside cricketing circles who started here and are now part of other leagues or teams, having progressed in their careers.”
From unearthing cricketing gems like Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal to backing emerging stars in the office space, the Royals’ culture of empowerment extends far beyond the pitch.
In February this year, the franchise was officially certified as a Great Place to Work for its commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
Beyond cricket, the Royals are shaping the future of sports education through the Royals School of Business - an industry-leading platform trusted by over 10,000 students globally. Their commitment to nurturing talent also extends to the Rajasthan Royals Academy.
The team’s social commitment is just as strong. Through the Royal Rajasthan Foundation, the franchise continues to harness the power of sport to drive meaningful impact in communities.
