LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka was seen having an animated chat with captain Rishabh Pant after losing the Delhi Capitals match on 1 April. It was deja vu for IPL fans as it reminded them of the infamous interaction between Goenka and KL Rahul, Lucknow’s then-captain.
It is still unclear what Sanjiv Goenka told KL Rahul after LSG’s loss in IPL 2024. But, Indian cricket fans did not enjoy it as the LSG owner appeared to be unhappy with Rahul; that, too, publicly.
View full Image View full Image KL Rahul Sanjiv Goenka's controversial scenes during IPL 2024.
A similar thing happened last night. Goenka did not seem pleased while speaking to Rishabh Pant. Though it is unclear what they discussed, social media has erupted once more.
Also Read | Lalit Modi calls Sanjiv Goenka a ‘clown’ in row over IPL credit
“Winning and losing are part of the game, but public humiliation shouldn't be. If Sanjiv Goenka has concerns, they belong in the dressing room, not on a global broadcast. Lecturing a captain like KL Rahul & Rishabh Pant in front of cameras feels less like 'passion' and more like a 'boss' trying to show who’s in charge. Respect the players who give their all,” wrote a fan.
“Criticism is part of sport, but respect should never be compromised. Players like KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant deserve public backing, not being called out on camera. Leadership is shown in how you support your team, especially in tough moments,” wrote another.
Another user commented, “We don't know what they are talking about. But look at the gestures.. they are not vibing good. Goenka should do this type of talk in the dressing room only. It also happened with KL Rahul... Public humiliation…”
“Mr Goenka, are you a coach or a businessman... Every time your team lost, you take a class of him. Fed up seeing your face, while your team loses,” came from another.
“Criticism is fine, but doing it in public like that just crosses the line. Respect has to go both ways,” posted another user.
This report is based on user-generated content from social media. LiveMint has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
‘Liability’ Pant Some social media users, however, expressed doubts and asked others not to speculate. Some users also blamed Rishabh Pant for his poor performance.
“Do you know what they are talking about?” Then, why are you assuming?” Yes, he behaved rudely with KL, and I know KL is one of the sweetest guys, and everyone is human at that year LSG losing match after match, and at that match they had no hunger to win, so he behaved rudely,” wrote one of them.
Also Read | LSG Owner Goenka, Rishabh Pant visit Ram Janmabhoomi ahead of IPL 2026
“Pant definitely is a liability...make Pooran captain or even Marsh. Also, that man bought the franchise for 7k crore with this sh*t show. It’s bound to happen,” wrote another.