Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka’s supportive gesture toward captain Rishabh Pant after the team’s defeat to Rajasthan Royals in their IPL 2026 match has quickly become a talking point online. In a contest where LSG were outplayed and fell by 40 runs, it was Goenka’s post-match conversation with Pant—and a hug in the middle of it—that resonated with fans. The video spread widely as the franchise continues to battle through a tough spell, sitting ninth in the points table and facing long odds of reaching the playoffs.
Goenka’s hug highlights support amid LSG’s difficult run
After the match, Goenka was seen spending time with Pant, speaking at length before wrapping him in a hug. The moment drew praise across social media not just for its warmth, but also because it reflected backing for the captain during an ongoing crisis for LSG.
- LSG lost to Rajasthan Royals by 40 runs in IPL 2026.
- It marked LSG’s fourth consecutive defeat in the tournament.
- The franchise is currently placed ninth in the points standings.
- Playoff qualification appears highly unlikely at this stage.
What Pant said after the 40-run defeat
Speaking after the loss in Lucknow on Wednesday, Pant acknowledged that the batting unit has been falling short. While he said it is hard to put everything into words, his message was clear: rather than searching for explanations externally, LSG need to find answers within the group.
He also admitted that the batting side—including himself—could have shown more patience and application. Pant pointed out that the bowlers had done a strong job, particularly following the previous game, and suggested the batting group must repay that effort by finishing the job more effectively.
- Pant said it’s difficult to explain the situation, but batting is “letting us down.”
- He emphasized the need to look for solutions within the team, not outside it.
- Pant noted that the batting group, including himself, could have taken more time at the crease.
- He added that the bowlers performed well—especially after the last match.
- His view was that batters must “put our hand up” and help complete the work for the bowlers.
Chasing 160: Mitchell Marsh’s 55 not enough as LSG collapse
In response to a target of 160, LSG were restricted to 119 in 18 overs. The chase never gained momentum, and the collapse accelerated when Pant miscued to be dismissed for a duck. Despite Mitchell Marsh top-scoring with 55, the hosts were unable to mount a successful run chase and slipped to another home defeat.
- LSG chased 160 but were bowled out for 119 in 18 overs.
- The innings was described as listless, with batters falling quickly.
- Pant was dismissed for a duck after a miscue.
- Mitchell Marsh scored 55, but it was not enough to prevent defeat.
LSG captain remains upbeat about turning things around
Even with the setback, Pant said he remains optimistic and wants the team to focus on the positives while regrouping. He stressed that despite the disappointment, LSG must stay composed, keep their heads up, and continue searching for answers inside the squad. Pant also expressed belief that the team still has plenty of firepower in both bowling and batting and that they can reverse their fortunes.
He said there is still a lot to examine on the positive side, and while the result is disappointing, LSG must keep searching internally and believe they can still turn it around—pointing to their ability to bounce back with their resources in the bowling and batting departments.
