Lalit Modi Criticizes LSG Owner Sanjiv Goenka Over Controversial IPL Incident

Lalit Modi has publicly criticized Sanjiv Goenka, the owner of Lucknow Super Giants, following a controversial incident after a recent IPL match. Modi's remarks highlight concerns over Goenka's behavior and call for the BCCI to take action. The dispute has escalated, with Modi emphasizing the importance of integrity in cricket. As the situation unfolds, Goenka has yet to respond to these allegations. This ongoing feud raises questions about the governance of the IPL and the responsibilities of its franchise owners.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 3, 2026, 17:26 IST

Lalit Modi's Strong Words Against Sanjiv Goenka

Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi has intensified his criticism of Sanjiv Goenka, the owner of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), following the emergence of images depicting a heated discussion between Goenka and Rishabh Pant after LSG's loss to Delhi Capitals (DC) in their opening match of the IPL at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekawna Cricket Stadium. Modi, who played a pivotal role in establishing the IPL, has urged the BCCI to impose a ban on Goenka, recalling a similar incident involving KL Rahul during the 2024 IPL that drew significant backlash.

In a post on X, Modi expressed his embarrassment over Goenka's behavior, stating, "I told you this guy @DrSanjivGoenka owner of @LucknowIPL is a complete loser and joker of the highest order. I created the @IPL for fans and players alike. Not for this to happen every time every year. If I was still Chairman and commissioner, I would have BANNED him immediately and made him forfeit his ownership of the team forever. He is a complete pompous clown. There is a clause in the franchise agreement for this exact issue. #bcci implement it - keep integrity above all - sucking up to powers that be is not the way to allow him to get away. Fans and players alike will remember,"

Modi further claimed that despite being related to Goenka, he prioritizes the integrity of the game. He labeled Goenka as toxic, stating, "You materially and consistently and concisely bring @IPL into disrepute. You will be banned. For your sake resign. And stay out of the stadium. As you are poison to the game, its integrity, and its ecosystem, its fans, and importantly the PLAYERS. You are toxic. Stay in your factories. You are my brother-in-law. But the Game comes first. Not you," in response to Goenka's post.

In another post, Modi commented on Goenka's public appearances, suggesting he should heed the advice of his elder brother Harsh, emphasizing the importance of humility and integrity.

Background of the Dispute

The conflict between Lalit Modi and Sanjiv Goenka escalated prior to the 2026 season when Goenka attributed the IPL's success to Jay Shah, following record sales of franchises like Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. As of now, Goenka has not publicly responded to Modi's remarks. In light of the recent controversy, LSG shared a video on social media, branding it as an 'unfiltered' clip of the post-match conversation, where Goenka and Pant appeared to engage in a cordial discussion.