Sanjiv Goenka Backs Rishabh Pant Despite Poor Season, Dismisses Release Rumours

LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka backs Rishabh Pant despite a disappointing IPL 2025, dismissing release rumours and reaffirming confidence in his leadership

The Lucknow Super Giants made headlines during the IPL mega auction by spending a record-breaking ₹27 crore to secure Rishabh Pant, making him the most expensive player in IPL history. The franchise placed immense trust in the wicketkeeper-batter, appointing him as captain as part of a fresh rebuild.

However, the 2025 season did not go as planned. LSG endured another disappointing campaign, finishing seventh and missing out on the playoffs for the second consecutive year. Pant, despite scoring an unbeaten century, managed only 269 runs across 13 innings, falling short of expectations.

Sanjiv Goenka Defends Pant Amid Criticism

Despite the underwhelming results, LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka firmly backed his captain, emphasizing the challenges faced by the team, particularly due to injuries in the bowling unit.

“If a captain is deprived of his four key bowlers, what is he expected to do? We must, therefore, assess the resources he actually had at his disposal. I have complete faith in him,” Goenka told SportsTak.

He also responded to speculation about Pant’s future with the franchise, brushing off such rumours.

“Sometimes, when people speculate about whether Rishabh will be retained or not, I simply look at it and laugh. Perhaps certain social media platforms are merely chasing views; Sanjiv Goenka makes for a convenient punching bag,” he said.

Faith in Leadership Ahead of IPL 2026

Goenka further praised Pant’s leadership qualities and commitment, reiterating his confidence in the skipper moving forward.

“He is excellent. He is straightforward and direct in his communication. He strives to give 100 per cent to the franchise. Therefore, when a player, regardless of whether he is the captain or not, gives his absolute 100 per cent, you cannot reasonably expect anything more from him,” he said.

Looking ahead, Lucknow Super Giants will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 1 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. With strong backing from the management, Pant will aim to turn things around and lead the franchise to a better season.