IPL 2026: LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka breaks silence on Pant captaincy ‘speculations’

Sanjiv Goenka, owner of Lucknow Super Giants, has firmly shut down speculation surrounding Rishabh Pant’s captaincy ahead of IPL 2026, calling out what he implied were baseless reports doing the rounds.

Pant had come under heavy criticism after a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign. Bought for a massive Rs. 27 crore at the mega auction, expectations were sky-high, but the left-hander struggled to deliver, scoring just 269 runs in 13 matches at an average of 24.45. As a result, rumours began circulating that LSG were considering a leadership change before the new season.




Goenka, however, made his stance clear with a public message backing Pant’s leadership and character.

“Heading into the season, I had read the speculations around @RishabhPant17's captaincy and smiled. We’ve spent enough time together to know his character and commitment. Have a great season, Cap!” Goenka wrote on X.

This is not the first time such rumours have surfaced. During IPL 2025, similar claims gained traction on social media, suggesting Pant could even be dropped due to concerns over his hefty price tag. The wicketkeeper-batter responded strongly at the time, calling out the spread of misinformation.

"I understand fake News gives more traction to content, but let’s not build everything around it . Little sense and credible news will help more rather making fake news with agenda. Thanks, have a good day . Let’s be responsible and sensible what we put out on social media,” Pant had posted.

With the noise around his role addressed, focus now shifts back to cricket. Pant’s form will be under close watch when LSG begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Delhi Capitals at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on April 1.