Sanjiv Goenka–Rishabh Pant exchange goes viral after LSG loss, sparks fresh IPL storm
Lucknow Super Giants began IPL 2026 with a six-wicket loss to Delhi Capitals, exposing batting frailties as they were bowled out for 141. Owner Sanjiv Goenka's intense on-field discussion with captain Rishabh Pant after the match drew comparisons to a similar incident last season. Pant's decision to open the batting also came under scrutiny following his dismissal for 7.
Lucknow Super Giants found themselves under early pressure in IPL 2026 after a disappointing six-wicket defeat to Delhi Capitals at home, a result that not only exposed batting concerns but also sparked conversation off the field. LSG struggled to get going with the bat, folding for just 141 in their opening game. The top order failed to deliver, with captain Rishabh Pant scoring 7, Aiden Markram managing 11, and Nicholas Pooran contributing only 8.
While the bowlers made early inroads, Delhi turned the chase around through a composed unbeaten 70 from Sameer Rizvi and a steady 39 not out from Tristan Stubbs, sealing the game with 2. 5 overs to spare. — FaiyazWhat (@FaiyazWhat) However, it was what followed after the match that drew just as much attention.
LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka was seen in an on-field conversation with Pant, with head coach Justin Langer also part of the discussion. While no audio was available, the visuals suggested an intense exchange, and the clip quickly gained traction across social media. The moment inevitably brought back memories of a similar incident involving Goenka and former LSG captain KL Rahul during the 2024 season.
That episode, widely viewed as a public fallout after a defeat, had drawn criticism at the time, and comparisons resurfaced following the latest visuals. Despite the speculation, Goenka struck a measured tone in his public response. Taking to X after the game, he backed his side and urged patience.