The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) suffered a devastating 10-wicket loss against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 8, 2023, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The defeat not only dented LSG’s chances of securing a spot in the playoffs but also sparked controversy due to the post-match actions of team owner Sanjiv Goenka. A viral video showing Goenka engaged in a heated conversation with LSG captain KL Rahul on the ground has drawn severe criticism from fans and cricket enthusiasts on social media.

Fans Express Disappointment and Anger Towards Goenka’s Behavior

The incident has led to a wave of backlash against Sanjiv Goenka, with numerous fans taking to social media platforms to express their disappointment and anger towards his treatment of KL Rahul. Many users argued that regardless of the team’s performance, it was highly inappropriate for the owner to publicly criticize and confront the team captain in such a manner.

This is just pathetic from @LucknowIPL owner
Never saw SRH management with players on the field or even closer to dressing room irrespective of so many bad seasons and still face lot of wrath for getting involved. Just look at this @klrahul leave this shit next year #SRHvsLSG pic.twitter.com/6NlAvHMCjJ

— SRI (@srikant5333) May 8, 2024

One user on X (formerly Twitter) shared the video of the incident and wrote, “This is just pathetic from @LucknowIPL owner. I never saw SRH management with players on the field or even closer to dressing room, irrespective of so many bad seasons and still face lot of wrath for getting involved. Just look at this, @klrahul Leave this shit next year. #SRHvsLSG.”

Another user commented, “This owner thinks he knows more about cricket than support staff, coaches, and players on the field. KL Rahul should leave LSG,” highlighting the perceived arrogance and lack of trust displayed by Goenka towards the team’s management and players.

Many fans also pointed out the need for professionalism and emotional control from team owners, especially in the face of adversity. “It’s not uncommon for team owners to express frustration after a loss, but publicly scolding the team captain might not be the most constructive approach,” remarked another user.

LSG’s Playoff Hopes Hang in the Balance

The crushing defeat against SRH has put LSG in a precarious position as they strive to secure a berth in the playoffs. The team’s dismal performance, particularly from their bowlers and top-order batsmen, left fans disappointed and concerned about their prospects in the tournament.

SRH’s Dominant Display

Batting first, LSG set a target of 166 runs in their allotted 20 overs. However, SRH openers Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma made a mockery of the chase, reaching the target in a mere 9.4 overs and securing a comprehensive 10-wicket victory for their team. The defeat exposed the vulnerabilities in LSG’s bowling attack and raised questions about their ability to compete against top teams in the league.

Calls for Respect and Support for KL Rahul

Amidst the criticism directed towards Sanjiv Goenka, many fans have rallied behind KL Rahul, expressing their support for the LSG captain. One user wrote, “The behavior of the LSG owner after losing the match badly to SRH is very unfortunate. There are wins and losses in sports, so you should control your emotions. Full support to KL Rahul.”

Another fan on social media stated, “LSG’s owner, Sanjeev Goenka, is agitated with KL Rahul for the loss against SRH. He has the right to be upset but he can’t humiliate a senior Indian 🇮🇳 player like this publicly . Cricket is NOT marwadi dhanda!”

The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the role of team owners in the IPL and the need to maintain a healthy and respectful relationship between owners, management, and players. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on LSG to see how they respond to this setback and whether they can regroup and make a strong comeback in their upcoming matches.

The confrontation between Sanjiv Goenka and KL Rahul serves as a reminder that while passion and emotions run high in the world of sports, it is essential to maintain professionalism, respect, and unity within the team, especially during challenging times. As fans continue to voice their opinions on the matter, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact the dynamics within the LSG camp and their performance in the remainder of the IPL season.

The Information is taken from Livemint and Times of India.