Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) Ultimately the team owner Sanjiv Goenka and captain Rishabh Pant reacted to the viral conversation that took place on the field between Delhi Capitals (DC) against IPL 2026 This happened after a heavy defeat. However, the clarification that was attempted instead sparked even more controversy, leading fans to question the authenticity of the franchise’s response.
Conversation between Rishabh Pant-Sanjiv Goenka on the field
The incident took place on April 1 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, when LSG lost by six wickets. Cameras captured Goenka having a spirited conversation with Pant near the boundary rope, with head coach Justin Langer also present. Although there was no audio of the conversation, the body language indicated a tense discussion, which immediately sparked online debate.
These scenes reminded fans of a similar moment in IPL 2024, when Goenka was seen publicly confronting then-captain KL Rahul after a defeat. That recall further increased the scrutiny surrounding the latest incident.
LSG’s ‘unfiltered’ video backfires
In an effort to take control of the narrative, LSG released a follow-up video via social media platform X on April 2. This post had the caption: “Whatever you see is not the true story. Here’s the unfiltered post-match atmosphere, when the cameras don’t cut away.”
The video showed a contrasting scene — Pant and Goenka were seen hugging each other, smiling and relaxed. The franchise attempted to suggest that earlier footage was misinterpreted and that there was no conflict between the two.
Not everything you see is the true story, here’s the unfiltered post match vibes, when cameras don’t cut. pic.twitter.com/EiPMWrmlkQ
— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) April 2, 2026
Goenka publicly supported his captain, saying: “It’s a long season, and moments like this are part of building something important. I have full confidence in our captain and the team that they will respond strongly.”
However, instead of resolving the issue, the video sparked new criticism. Many fans pointed to the apparently empty stands in the background, raising doubts as to whether the clip was actually filmed immediately after the match. This led to speculation that the talks were possibly staged for later as part of damage control.
Some users also added community notes to the post, claiming that the video “Constructed Approach” Presented. Attempts to clarify the situation ultimately escalated the controversy – it’s a classic case of what has been called the Streisand Effect, where attempts to suppress or clarify an issue only bring it more into focus.
“I would have banned Sanjiv Goenka”: Lalit Modi
The controversy drew strong reactions from prominent figures in the cricket world. Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi strongly criticized Goenka, writing: “I told you this guy… is a complete loser and a joker of the highest order. I am seriously embarrassed by his behaviour. If I were still the chairman and commissioner, I would have banned him immediately. There is a clause in the franchise agreement for this issue. #BCCI enforce it.”
He also criticized the broader culture, stating: “While football league owners treat players with respect… IPL owners often chase hype and headlines, publicly berating captains on the boundary after tough defeats.”
former England captain Michael Vaughan also responded, posting: “One match has already taken place in the tournament… there is no need for this.”
As LSG prepares for its next clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), the franchise will be keen to focus on cricket. However, this controversy has revived the discussion on the role of team owners and the way they publicly interact with players during matches.
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