The sight of Lucknow Super Giants’ owner Sanjiv Goenka engaging in lengthy post-match discussions with his captain Rishabh Pant is becoming a familiar one, particularly after defeats.
Last season, former LSG captain KL Rahul experienced it firsthand and now record-breaking signing Rishabh Pant finds himself in the same position.
KL Rahul’s intense conversation with Sanjiv Goenka in the IPL 2024 sparked widespread debate and his subsequent release from the franchise followed a disappointing campaign that saw LSG finish seventh and miss the playoffs for the first time since their debut in 2022.
On Tuesday night, following LSG’s heavy defeat to Punjab Kings in their first home game of the IPL 2025, Sanjiv Goenka was once again seen in an animated discussion — this time with Rishabh Pant. The images of their conversation quickly went viral on social media, fueling further speculation about the mounting pressure on the team.
The former Indian cricketer and 1983 World Cup winner Madan Lal has advised Sanjiv Goenka to allow players the freedom to play without added pressure, pointing out the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket. Madan Lal took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote, “I don’t know the discussion between Rishabh and Mr Sanjiv’s Goenka. All this can happen inside. Let boys enjoy the game let them play freely. 20/20 cricket very unpredictable.”
https://x.com/MadanLal1983/status/1907297227091083424
LSG, playing at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, had initially struggled but managed to post 171/7. However, Punjab Kings comfortably chased the target in just 16.2 overs, securing an eight-wicket victory.
Sanjiv Goenka’s franchise made headlines at the IPL Mega Auction last year by spending a staggering ₹27 crore to bring in Rishabh Pant. Despite the high-profile move from Delhi Capitals, the star wicketkeeper-batsman is yet to deliver the expected impact. Under Rishabh Pant’s leadership, LSG has secured just one victory in three matches, with the captain himself managing only 17 runs across three innings, including a duck.
Currently placed sixth in the IPL points table, LSG will look to bounce back when they face Mumbai Indians on Friday, hoping to turn their fortunes around in the ongoing season.
