‘I’m a social media punching bag…,’ Is Rishabh Pant leaving LSG? This statement of owner Sanjeev Goenka is in discussion

Sanjiv Goenka Statement before IPL 2026: Before the start of IPL 2026, team owner Sanjeev Goenka has now given a big statement on the ongoing speculations regarding Lucknow Super Giants. Especially, he has completely rejected the news going on social media regarding the future of captain Rishabh Pant.

End on rumors regarding Rishabh Pant

Sanjeev Goenka clearly said that Rishabh Pant is not going to leave the team. He said that the news going on social media has no basis and he does not take these things seriously. According to him, some platforms spread such rumors just for the sake of views, which have nothing to do with reality.

“I become a punching bag.”

Goenka said that he is often targeted on social media during the IPL. He jokingly said that he becomes a “punching bag” and people say all kinds of things. He also said that people keep raising the question whether Pant will remain in the team or not, but he just laughs at all this.

Disappointing performance in IPL 2025

Rishabh Pant’s performance last season was not as expected. He scored 269 runs in 14 matches, which was his weakest season since 2017. Even in terms of captaincy, the team’s performance was not special and Lucknow Super Giants finished 7th among 10 teams in the points table. The team suffered huge losses especially due to injuries to fast bowlers.

Goenka came out in Pant’s defence. Sanjeev Goenka, while defending Pant, said that it is important to understand the situation also. He said that if a captain does not have four main fast bowlers available, then how can he perform better. He expressed full confidence in Pant and said that he is an excellent player and captain.

Price pressure of 27 crores

Rishabh Pant was bought for Rs 27 crore ahead of IPL 2025, making him the most expensive player in the league. Due to this huge amount, there was additional pressure on him. Goenka admitted that last season the team made some mistakes and the team was not balanced, but this time an attempt has been made to overcome those shortcomings.

Strong team ready for IPL 2026

Lucknow Super Giants have paid special attention to strengthening their team for IPL 2026. Mayank Yadav is close to fit, while Mohsin Khan and Avesh Khan will also be available. The team has bought Enrique Norkia for Rs 2 crore and included Jose Inglis for Rs 8 crore. Goenka believes that this team is ready to perform better this time.

Also read: Who is this 23 year old Sixer King? Salil Arora showed his strength by hitting 5 sixes in 5 balls, fear in the opposing teams!

Lucknow Super Giants will play their first match against Delhi Capitals on April 1 at their home ground. Whereas IPL 2026 is going to start from March 28. The team is going to enter this season with new confidence.