Former LSG spinner Amit Mishra has defended team owner Sanjiv Goenka. Previously, Goenka faced criticism for publicly confronting KL Rahul during the 2024 IPL season. Cameras caught Goenka speaking to Rahul after LSG conceded 160 runs in just 10 overs against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Although the exact words remain unknown, many accused Goenka of interfering in team matters.
As a result, a fallout occurred between Goenka and Rahul. Eventually, the franchise released Rahul. Later, they spent ₹27 crore on Rishabh Pant in the IPL 2035 mega auction to find a new captain. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals bought Rahul for ₹14 crore. Afterward, DC co-owner Parth Jindal said, “KL Rahul wants love and respect from his new team,” which added more fuel to the debate.
Mishra Backs Goenka
Now, Amit Mishra has spoken in support of Goenka. He claimed the media overplayed the incident.
“I feel that the media has shown off a little too much. I didn’t feel that there was anything like that,” Mishra told Cricbuzz.
According to him, LSG had suffered heavy defeats. “We lost in Kolkata in an awful way. We lost the match in 11 overs. Then we went to Hyderabad, where we lost the match in 9 overs,” he said.
Therefore, Goenka addressed the team to boost morale. “So, if there is any owner, he says that losing is okay, but just go out there and show some fight. Fight and lose, I have no problem,” Mishra explained.
He further added, “He never said anything wrong or said anything in a very high tone.”
Leadership Approach Changed
Moreover, Mishra pointed out that the team’s decision-making system changed after IPL 2024. Back then, Rahul made all the key decisions. “I spoke to the coach last season, and he told me that KL Rahul is doing all the work,” Mishra said. “He is making the 11s, making all the changes, and planning.”
However, this season things are different. “This year, when Zaheer Khan has gone, I feel like he is talking to everyone,” he continued. “There is a discussion going on. They are talking to each other.”
For instance, Mishra recalled, “I saw the coach Justin Langer on the pitch before the match against Mumbai Indians. He was speaking to Digvesh Rathi.”
In addition, he said the owner isn’t as involved as before. “I don’t feel he is very involved if you talk about the owner. Yes, he definitely wants to win. But he always stays positive when coming to the dressing room,” he noted.
LSG’s Current Status
At present, LSG are sixth on the IPL 2025 points table. They have won five matches and lost five. However, their biggest concern is Pant’s poor form. So far, he has scored only 110 runs in 10 games.
Looking ahead, LSG will face Punjab Kings on Sunday.
