Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka addressed criticism over his animated interactions with players on the field. Goenka said social media has misunderstood their intentions and turned them into a target, adding that such stories are often exaggerated to garner attention and quick online engagement.
The on-field interaction between Sanjiv Goenka and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant during IPL 2026 quickly gained massive attention. Lucknow Super Giants have won only two out of their five matches this season. Fans compared it to a similar incident involving former captain KL Rahul in 2024.
On Rishabh Pant controversy, Sanjeev Goenka said, ‘Daat’ situation never happens
Speaking to NDTV, Goenka dismissed online claims that his animated conversation with Rishabh Pant was a rebuke. Goenka said that such moments are exaggerated and do not reflect the positive atmosphere within the team.
“Look, there is never a ‘scold’ situation with a player like Rishabh. But on social media, if Sanjiv Goenka moves his hands a certain way, it becomes breaking news. I have become a very convenient punching bag. If you run a headline saying ‘Sanjiv Goenka scolds his player,’ you get instant views,” Goenka explained.
He said, “People need to understand that one incident doesn’t define a person. We make mistakes, we learn, and we make sure we don’t repeat them. The dressing room is happy, and the atmosphere is positive; these external narratives are not the real issues.”
I wave a lot, but… -Sanjeev Goenka
Sanjeev Goenka said that he is surprised that even small gestures during conversations become big headlines. Goenka said he naturally uses his hands while speaking, but has changed his behavior due to repeated misinterpretations.
“It’s funny how a simple gesture or hand wave off the field makes national headlines. I’m naturally someone who waves a lot when they speak, but seeing how things get misinterpreted, I’m now literally learning to keep my hands behind my back when I talk!” Goenka commented.
How do I respond to critics who say I interfere? – LSG Owner
Goenka rejected claims that he interferes in team decisions, saying he has never played professional cricket and does not dictate to players how to perform. He said that a large team of experts handles all the technical aspects, while he only focuses on supporting the team’s success.
Goenka said, “How do I respond to critics who say I interfere? Honestly, for someone who has never played professional cricket, it would be foolish to tell my players how to play. I have a huge team of experts who handle the technical side of the game.”
He said, “Yes, I am passionate about the team. I want them to succeed and perform well, but I do not understand the nuances of cricket like an expert. It would be completely inappropriate for me to give ‘cricketing lessons’ to professional athletes. My role is to support the team, not to train them.”
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