Why is Sanjiv Goenka Trending in IPL 2026?

Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant and head coach Justin Langer were seen in an animated discussion with team owner Sanjiv Goenka after their six-wicket defeat to Delhi Capitals. LSG struggled with the bat and were bowled out for just 141. After losing four early wickets, DC seemed to take charge and sealed an easy win with more than two overs left.

After the match, videos surfaced online showing Sanjiv Goenka behaviour while speaking with one of the best wicketkeepers in IPL, Rishabh Pant, on the field. Pant appeared quite expressive during the conversation, and Langer also joined in. Fans on social media recalled the earlier incident involving Goenka and KL Rahul after LSG’s loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2024.

Why is Sanjiv Goenka Trending in IPL 2026?

After the match, footage showed Sanjiv Goenka and Rishabh Pant chatting, but no audio was heard. The conversation looked a bit heated in the visuals, and this exchange was the reason behind the viral backlash against Sanjiv Goenka LSG owner. A few years ago, Goenka had faced criticism for a similar moment, but that time it involved one of the best batsmen in IPL, KL Rahul, who was leading LSG in 2024.

On-field arguments like these don't paint a positive picture for the franchise, as it usually suggests to the fans that there is something wrong in the camp. Although Sanjiv Goenka went on to post an optimistic message for Lucknow fans, the damage was already done.

He wrote on X that it is a long season and moments like these are part of building something meaningful, adding that he has complete confidence in the captain and the team to respond strongly. He also thanked the fans for their support at Ekana and assured them that the team will come back better. He concluded by saying that the story of LSG this season is still far from over.

Former IPL Chairman Takes a Dig at Sanjiv Goenka After LSG Loss

As per a report from The Times of India, Lalit Modi initiated a controversy by indirectly criticising Sanjiv Goenka following Lucknow Super Giants’ defeat, questioning the pattern of team owners openly reacting to captains. His comments came after visuals of Sanjiv Goenka behaviour with Rishabh Pant after LSG's loss against Delhi Capitals.

A few days back, Lalit Modi made a strong personal remark against Sanjiv Goenka, even calling him a “clown” in a social media post. This came after Goenka spoke about the growing value of IPL teams but did not mention Modi’s role in starting the league.

In response, Modi questioned Goenka’s understanding of how the IPL began and said he seemed to have “forgotten” its history, stressing that the league was built on his original idea. He also added that the LSG owner did not have proper knowledge about the IPL.