Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka has dismissed rumors about Rishabh Pant losing the team captaincy. He confirmed that Pant will continue to lead LSG in the upcoming IPL 2026 season.
There had been speculation that Pant might be replaced as captain after a difficult season in 2025. However, Goenka clearly stated that the franchise has full trust in Pant’s leadership.
Goenka Responds to Captaincy Rumors
Sanjiv Goenka shared a message on social media confirming that Pant will remain the captain of Lucknow Super Giants.
He said that he understands Pant’s character and commitment after spending time with him. Goenka also wished Pant success for the upcoming season.
The message made it clear that the franchise has no plans to change its captain before IPL 2026.
LSG New Signings for IPL 2026
Lucknow Super Giants have strengthened their squad by adding several experienced international players.
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Josh Inglis | Wicketkeeper-batter |
| Wanindu Hasaranga | All-rounder |
| Mohammed Shami | Fast bowler |
| Anrich Nortje | Fast bowler |
These signings are expected to improve the team’s balance and strengthen both the batting and bowling departments.
LSG Opening Match in IPL 2026
Lucknow Super Giants will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Delhi Capitals. The match will also be special for Rishabh Pant because he previously played for Delhi before joining LSG.
| Match | Team 1 | Team 2 |
|---|---|---|
| IPL 2026 Match | Lucknow Super Giants | Delhi Capitals |
Pant will lead the side once again as the team aims to perform better this season.
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Rishabh Pant’s Performance in IPL 2025
Pant joined Lucknow Super Giants ahead of IPL 2025 after leaving Delhi Capitals. It was a challenging season for him as both captain and batter.
LSG finished seventh on the points table after losing eight of their fourteen matches.
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 innings | 269 | 24.45 | 133.16 | 1 | 1 |
Pant scored a century in the final group-stage match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He also recorded one half-century during the season.
Goenka Talks About LSG’s Goals
Sanjiv Goenka said the team is still building its identity in the IPL. According to him, reaching the playoffs twice is not enough for the franchise.
He explained that winning a trophy is the real goal for the team and the management wants to see LSG lift their first IPL title in the coming seasons.
Looking Back at the 2025 Season
Despite finishing seventh in IPL 2025, LSG had some positive moments during the season.
The team won four of its first six matches even though the bowling unit was struggling with injuries. Some bold decisions, such as promoting Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh to open the batting, helped the team in several matches.
Young player Digvesh Rathi also impressed with his performances.
Goenka admitted that the pace bowling department needed improvement, which is why the team has added players like Mohammed Shami and Anrich Nortje for the upcoming season.
With Rishabh Pant confirmed as captain and several new players joining the squad, Lucknow Super Giants will aim for a stronger campaign in IPL 2026.
Fans will be closely watching Pant’s leadership and the performance of the new signings as LSG chase their first IPL title.
