NEW DELHI: Despite Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) disappointing eight-wicket defeat to Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the 2025 IPL, franchise owner Sanjiv Goenka has kept his faith in Rishabh Pant’s leadership abilities.
He delivered a stirring message — one that not only motivated his squad but also highlighted his unwavering faith in skipper’s potential.
In a conversation with Star Sports, Goenka made a striking declaration: “The moment we knew he (Rishabh) was not being retained, we planned the team around him. I’ve said this before, and I have no hesitation in saying it again: I believe he’s a great leader. His best leadership is yet to come. So, 27 is the number we got him at. If it had meant 28, that would have been the number.”
Goenka emphasised that Pant’s leadership journey is still unfolding, and that LSG is fully invested in his aggressive, instinct-driven style. “We were very clear—we needed a leader who trusts and backs his instincts, who is fearless, who is destructive. And in Rishabh, we get all of that,” he added.
Pant, however, endured a tough outing against Punjab, managing just two runs. LSG’s top order faltered, with Mitchell Marsh falling for a golden duck, but a gritty 65-run stand between Nicholas Pooran (44) and Ayush Badoni (41) helped steady the innings.
Late cameos from David Miller and Abdul Samad took the team to 171/7, but it proved insufficient.
Punjab’s openers were ruthless in reply. Prabhsimran Singh smashed 69 off 34 balls, while Shreyas Iyer (52 not out) and Nehal Wadhera (43 not out) chased down the target with ease, sealing the win in just 16.2 overs.
Despite the loss, Goenka addressed the team with encouragement. “This evening, you are entitled to your disappointments. Tomorrow morning, wake up fresh… you’ve really got a great team. Just believe in yourself.”
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Now placed sixth on the points table, LSG will look to bounce back in their next fixture against Mumbai Indians. With Pant at the helm and Goenka’s full backing, the team remains confident their best is yet to come.
