Rajasthan Royals have reportedly made a high-profile approach to India head coach Gautam Gambhir, offering him a multi-layered role that includes CEO,
mentor, and minority partner in the franchise.
According to reports, the proposal comes at a time when the 2008 IPL champions are on the cusp of a major ownership transition. A consortium, believed to include the Somani group among other stakeholders, is in advanced stages of acquiring a significant stake from Manoj Badale's group in a deal that could value the franchise at approximately $1.3 billion.
As part of that restructuring, Gambhir has allegedly been offered a 2-3 percent equity stake along with executive and cricketing responsibilities.
The move would be one of the most ambitious front-office appointments in IPL history. Gambhir's pedigree is unquestioned - two IPL titles as captain with Kolkata Knight Riders, a third as mentor, and playoff finishes with Lucknow Super Giants during his stint there.
However, a return to the league in an administrative or mentoring capacity appears unlikely at this stage.
Why Gautam Gambhir Cannot Accept - For Now
Under the Supreme Court-mandated Lodha Committee reforms, individuals associated with the Indian national team cannot simultaneously hold positions with IPL franchises due to conflict-of-interest regulations.
Gambhir's contract as India head coach runs through the 2027 ODI World Cup. Accepting the Royals' proposal would require him to step down from his national role.
At present, there is no indication that he intends to do so.
Despite recent setbacks, including ODI series defeats to New Zealand and Sri Lanka - Gambhir remains central to India's long-term planning. His focus includes the ongoing T20 World Cup campaign and, significantly, cricket's return to the Olympics in Los Angeles 2028, where India will target its first Olympic medal in the sport.
For now, the Royals' offer may be bold, but Gambhir's commitment appears firmly national.
