![Sanjiv Goenka and Rishabh Pant [Source: AFP and AP Photos]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1779193607089_SanjivGoenkaandRishabhPant(1).jpg?type=hq)
Sanjiv Goenka and Rishabh Pant [Source: AFP and AP Photos]
The relationship between Rishabh Pant and Sanjiv Goenka has remained under scrutiny throughout IPL 2026, especially after an earlier viral controversy where the Lucknow Super Giants owner was seen having an animated conversation with the wicketkeeper-batter on camera.
Although later LSG suggested that the moment had been exaggerated and wrongly portrayed online, fresh developments have once again brought the duo into focus.
Sanjiv Goenka’s Lips Shut After Rishabh Pant Snub
Recently, the Board of Control for Cricket in India announced India’s squads for the upcoming Afghanistan series, and Pant faced a major setback.
The explosive wicketkeeper-batter was dropped from the ODI squad, while he also lost his role as vice-captain in the Test setup, with KL Rahul taking over the responsibility.
While Pant’s omission became one of the biggest talking points from the squad announcement, Goenka’s reaction drew equal attention for a different reason.
Also Read- BCCI Admits Moving Beyond Mohammed Shami
Sanjiv Goenka Celebrates Prince Yadav But Avoids Pant
Instead of addressing Pant’s snub, Sanjiv Goenka took to the social media platform X to congratulate Prince Yadav for earning his maiden India call-up.
The Lucknow Super Giants owner shared a heartfelt message praising the young pacer and wished him success while representing the national side.
“Delighted to see Prince Yadav earn his maiden ODI call-up for India. His rise this IPL season has been a joy to witness. He has the heart, the hunger, and the fearlessness to take on the best. This is just the beginning. Congratulations, Prince. I’m proud of you, and so is @LucknowIPL. Make India proud,” Goenka wrote.
Interestingly, Goenka had earlier compared Pant’s captaincy stature with legends like MS Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli.
However, his latest public reaction focused entirely on Prince Yadav’s rise while completely avoiding any mention of Pant’s exclusion from India’s white-ball setup.
Prince Yadav’s Breakthrough Season Earns National Recognition
Prince Yadav has emerged as one of the standout performers for Lucknow Super Giants this season. The young pacer has picked up 16 wickets from 12 matches and has consistently troubled batters with his pace. His performances include multiple two-wicket spells along with two impressive three-wicket hauls.
The right-arm fast bowler has been associated with the LSG setup since 2025. While he struggled during his initial appearances by managing only three wickets in six matches with an economy rate nearing 10, IPL 2026 has completely transformed his image.
With Jasprit Bumrah unavailable, selectors seemingly opened the door for emerging pace options, and Prince Yadav managed to capitalise on the opportunity through his IPL performances.
Rishabh Pant’s Captaincy Under Pressure At LSG
While Prince Yadav’s rise has given Lucknow Super Giants something to celebrate, the same cannot be said for Rishabh Pant’s leadership campaign. LSG have endured a disappointing IPL 2026 season under Pant’s captaincy and currently sit at the bottom of the points table.
Lucknow have managed to win only four out of their 12 matches so far, collecting just eight points in the season.
Their struggles with consistency, both in batting and bowling, have placed the franchise under intense scrutiny. Pant’s own form and tactical decisions have also been questioned throughout the campaign.
Also Read- India ODI Squad vs Afghanistan Announced; BCCI Brings Ishan Kishan Back
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