Gautam Gambhir, currently serving as the head coach of India national cricket team, is fully focused on preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup. However, amid this busy schedule, reports have surfaced linking him with an Indian Premier League franchise ahead of IPL 2026.

According to media reports, Rajasthan Royals have shown keen interest in bringing Gambhir into their setup. The development comes at a time when the franchise is reportedly set to see changes in ownership.

Rajasthan Royals Offered Gambhir Three Roles

As per a report published in Dainik Jagran, one of the potential new owners of Rajasthan Royals has offered Gautam Gambhir three major roles within the franchise:

• Partner

• Mentor

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

However, the report also claims that Gambhir has not accepted any of these offers, and the chances of him doing so appear slim.

Why Gambhir Is Unlikely to Accept the Offer

Gautam Gambhir’s current contract as Team India’s head coach runs until the 2027 World Cup. Accepting any official role with an IPL franchise during this tenure would lead to a conflict of interest.

As per the Lodha Committee recommendations, which were later upheld by the Supreme Court, an individual cannot simultaneously hold a coaching role with the Indian team and occupy positions such as partner, mentor, or CEO in an IPL franchise.

This means Gambhir would have to step down as India’s head coach if he wished to join Rajasthan Royals—something that appears highly unlikely at this stage.

What’s Next?

Sources close to Gambhir have reportedly declined to comment on the matter. For now, the former India opener remains committed to his national duties, with his primary focus firmly on guiding Team India through upcoming ICC tournaments.

Unless there is a major shift in priorities, Gautam Gambhir’s return to the IPL ecosystem—at least in a management or leadership role—seems off the table for now.