Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) hopes of reaching the IPL 2025 playoffs were dashed after a six-wicket defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Monday, May 19. Despite a strong total of 205/7, thanks to fifties from Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram, LSG were undone by a blazing 18-ball fifty from Abhishek Sharma and a calm finish from Heinrich Klaasen. The result dropped LSG to seventh place on the points table, officially ending their playoff hopes.
Was Sanjiv Goenka frustrated in LSG vs SRH match?
While the players battled on the field, emotions ran high off it. Owner Sanjiv Goenka was visibly frustrated during the match, particularly after the early dismissal of Rishabh Pant. Acquired for a staggering ₹27 crore ahead of the season, Pant was seen as the marquee signing meant to elevate LSG’s title hopes. However, his form has been horrible, costing LSG almost Rs 20 lac per run so far! In 11 innings, he has managed to score just 135 runs, out of which 63 came in one innings.
Pant’s latest dismissal, after a solid 115-run opening stand, proved to be the breaking point. Goenka, seen storming out of the stands and into the dressing room mid-match, cut a disappointed figure. However, after LSG lost the game to the SunRisers, Goenka was seen chatting with players, like he usually does after every game.
What did LSG owner say after the match?
Later, on May 20, Goenka addressed fans with a composed message on social media:
“It’s been a challenging second half of the season, but there’s much to take heart in. The spirit, the effort, and the moments of excellence give us a lot to build on. Two games remain. Let’s play with pride and finish strong.”
It was interesting to see Goenka post a photo, where he was seen with a beaming smile and putting his hands on Rishabh Pant’s shoulders, who was seen talking to his teammates.
With two fixtures left, LSG will now look to restore pride, even as attention shifts to what lies ahead for both the franchise and their high-profile investment in Pant.
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