Sanjiv Goenka, Rishabh Pant [Source: AFP]The Lucknow Super Giants had a forgettable start to the IPL 2026, as they lost their tournament opener against Delhi Capitals by a comprehensive margin. Led by Rishabh Pant, LSG posted an under-par total of 141 runs. Although their pace battery dismantled the Capitals' top-order, Sameer Rizvi's calculated half-century got DC over the line with 17 balls to spare. LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka attended the high-voltage clash against Delhi Capitals at the Ekana Stadium. After his team was thrashed by the Capitals in their own backyard, the business tycoon took to social media, sending a clear message to captain Rishabh Pant and his troops. Rishabh Pant sustains lean patch for LSGExperienced Indian batter Rishabh Pant grabbed a million eyeballs when he became the most expensive player in the IPL auction history. The dynamic southpaw was purchased by the Lucknow Super Giants. LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka even went on to appoint him the captain of the team, despite the Super Giants having more experienced leaders in Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh. The IPL 2025 turned out to be a nightmare for Pant, as the left-handed batter managed only 269 runs at a modest average of 24.45 and a poor strike rate of 133.17. Also read: Mohammed Shami Leaves KL Rahul Frustrated; Dismisses Him For Golden DuckHis meagre returns and tactical limitations derailed the Super Giants' IPL campaign last season, as they crashed out of the group-stage despite remarkable performance from Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh and Nicholas Pooran. While his fans were hopeful of a turnaround, Pant's IPL 2026 campaign kicked off with a disappointing outing. The LSG captain was unfortunately run out at the non-striker's end after scoring a run-a-ball seven. Sanjiv Goenka issues clear message for Rishabh Pant and LSGThe Super Giants' owner, Sanjiv Goenka, was present at the Ekana Stadium when the Delhi Capitals decimated his team. However, despite the crushing defeat, Goenka remained optimistic for a grand comeback. Taking to his official handle on the social media platform X, Goenka thanked the LSG fans for their unconditional support. He reckoned setbacks like the defeat set the foundation for a memorable comeback, keeping full faith in captain Rishabh Pant and the entire Super Giants team. Dr. Sanjiv Goenka @DrSanjivGoenka This is a long season, and moments like these are part of building something meaningful. I have full confidence in our captain and the team to respond with strength. To our fans, thank you for your support at Ekana today, we will come back stronger. The story of @LucknowIPL this Apr 2, 2026, 12:33 AM "This is a long season, and moments like these are part of building something meaningful. I have full confidence in our captain and the team to respond with strength. To our fans, thank you for your support at Ekana today, we will come back stronger. The story of @LucknowIPL this season is far from written," Sanjiv Goenka posted on X after the Super Giants lost to Delhi Capitals. LSG to face SRH in their next matchAfter losing to the Capitals, the Lucknow Super Giants are getting ready to face SRH in their second group-stage match. It will be their first away game, as Pant and his men would be desperate to register a win and open their account on the IPL 2026 points table. The match is scheduled to be played at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on April 5. Also read: KKR vs SRH Head to Head Records- IPL 2026, Match 6
