Sanjeev Goenka Expresses Frustration Over Rishabh Pant's Performance in IPL 2025
Disappointment for LSG Owner Sanjeev Goenka
Sanjeev Goenka, the owner of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), showed clear signs of disappointment following skipper Rishabh Pant's lackluster performance during the IPL 2025 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on May 19.
Rishabh Pant has been struggling with his form throughout the current IPL season. Coming in to bat after the dismissal of Mitchell Marsh at a score of 115/1, expectations were high for Pant to perform well, especially as the team vies for a playoff spot alongside Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals. Unfortunately, he managed only seven runs before being dismissed by Eshan Malinga.
This latest performance adds to the growing concerns regarding Pant's ability to deliver when it matters most for LSG this season.
Sanjeev Goenka's Reaction
Following Pant's dismissal, Goenka's frustration was evident. A viral video captured the moment he stormed out of the stadium balcony, visibly upset with the skipper's performance as cameras focused on the VIP box right after the dismissal.
Fans quickly noticed Goenka's reaction, especially as the pressure mounts on Lucknow Super Giants to secure a playoff position. Pant's ongoing struggles may have contributed to Goenka's visible frustration.
Rishabh Pant taking revenge of KL Rahul from Sanjiv Goenka 🤣 #RishabhPant #LSGvSRH #SanjivGoenka
High Expectations for Rishabh Pant
Goenka's disappointment is understandable, given that LSG acquired Rishabh Pant for a staggering INR 27 crore, making him the highest-paid player in IPL history. Pant transitioned to LSG after nine seasons with Delhi Capitals, his original franchise.
However, in the current IPL season, Pant has struggled to meet expectations, scoring only 135 runs, including one fifty, at an average of 12.27 across 12 matches.
LSG Aims to Secure Playoff Spot
Despite Pant's struggles, Lucknow Super Giants managed to set a competitive total of 205/7 against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Mitchell Marsh was the standout performer, scoring 65 runs off 39 balls, and he partnered with Aiden Markram, who contributed 61 runs off 38 balls in a strong opening stand of 115 runs.
Nicholas Pooran also played a vital role, adding 45 runs off 26 balls, helping the team post a defendable score. However, aside from Marsh, Markram, and Pooran, other batsmen like Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, and David Miller failed to make significant contributions, indicating LSG's heavy reliance on their top order.
The match against Sunrisers Hyderabad is critical for Lucknow Super Giants as they strive to keep their playoff hopes alive. Currently, the Rishabh Pant-led team sits in seventh place with five wins and six losses, totaling 10 points. They need to win their remaining league matches to have a realistic chance of qualifying for the playoffs, having won only one of their last five games and currently on a three-match losing streak.