“I’ve become a punching bag” - Sanjiv Goenka responds to backlash over on-field exchange with Rishabh Pant

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka addressed criticism over his animated on-field interactions with players. Goenka said that social media has misunderstood his intentions and turned him into a target, adding that such narratives are often exaggerated for attention and quick online engagement.

A visible on-field exchange between Sanjiv Goenka and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant quickly gained massive attention during IPL 2026. Lucknow Super Giants have won just two of their five matches this season. Fans drew comparisons to a similar incident involving former captain KL Rahul in 2024.

There Is Never A ‘Daat’ Situation - Sanjiv Goenka On Rishabh Pant Controversy

In a conversation with NDTV, Goenka dismissed online claims that his animated exchange with Rishabh Pant was a reprimand. Goenka said that such moments are exaggerated and do not reflect the positive atmosphere inside the team.

"Look, with a player like Rishabh, there is never a 'daat' (scolding) situation. But on social media, even if Sanjiv Goenka moves his hands a certain way, it becomes breaking news. I've become a very convenient punching bag. If you run a headline saying 'Sanjiv Goenka scolds his player,' you get instant views," Goenka explained.

"People need to understand that one incident doesn't define a person. We make mistakes, we learn, and we ensure we don't repeat them. The dressing room is happy, and the environment is positive; these outside narratives aren't actual issues," he added.

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I Speak With A Lot Of Hand Movements, But… - Sanjiv Goenka

Sanjiv Goenka said that he is surprised that even small gestures during conversations turn into major headlines. Goenka stated that he naturally uses hand movements while speaking, but repeated misinterpretations have made him change his behavior.

"It's funny how a simple gesture or hand movement outside the field becomes a national headline. I am naturally someone who speaks with a lot of hand movements, but seeing how things get misinterpreted, I am now literally learning to keep my hands behind my back while talking!" Goenka remarked.

How Do I Respond To Critics Who Say I Interfere? - LSG Owner

Goenka rejected claims that he interferes in team decisions, stating that he has never played professional cricket and does not instruct players on how to perform. He added that a large team of experts handles all technical aspects, while he focuses only on supporting the team’s success.

"How do I respond to critics who say I interfere? Honestly, for someone who has never played professional cricket, it would be foolish of me to tell my players how to play. I have a massive team of experts who handle the technical side of the game," Goenka stated.

"Yes, I am passionate about the team. I want them to succeed and do well, but I don't understand the nuances of cricket the way an expert does. It would be completely out of place for me to give 'cricketing lessons' to professional athletes. My role is to support the team, not to coach them," he added.

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