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Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have found themselves embroiled in controversy early in the IPL 2025 season. Following their eight-wicket loss to the Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, reports emerged alleging that LSG officials deliberately skipped the customary post-match presentation ceremony. This incident has sparked widespread speculation, adding to the mounting pressure on the franchise, which has already faced scrutiny for its performance and internal dynamics.
LSG’s rocky start to IPL 2025
LSG’s campaign in IPL 2025 has been far from ideal. With two losses in their first three matches, the team has slipped into the bottom half of the points table. Their latest defeat against PBKS was particularly disheartening, as they failed to defend a modest total of 171 runs. PBKS chased down the target with ease, thanks to stellar performances by Prabhsimran Singh (69 off 34 balls), Shreyas Iyer (52* off 30 balls), and Nehal Wadhera (43* off 25 balls).
LSG’s batting lineup struggled early, with captain Rishabh Pant managing just 2 runs off 5 balls. Though Nicholas Pooran (44 off 30) and Ayush Badoni (41 off 33) attempted to stabilize the innings, their efforts were insufficient to set a competitive target. The defeat left fans disappointed and raised questions about the team’s ability to adapt to conditions at their home ground.
LSG officials’ post-match presentation snub
According to reports, LSG officials were expected to attend the post-match presentation ceremony as part of the host team’s protocol. However, no representative from the franchise was present, despite some officials, including owner Sanjiv Goenka, being spotted on the field immediately after the game. This absence led to speculation that LSG’s leadership was unwilling to face public scrutiny following the defeat.
While an LSG official dismissed these allegations, claiming there was “no such arrangement,” other sources suggested that Goenka’s name was initially included in the guest list for the ceremony but later removed. This perceived breach of protocol has fuelled criticism and raised concerns about transparency within the franchise.
Also READ: IPL: 5 biggest defeats for Sunrisers Hyderabad in terms of runs
Recurring controversies surrounding leadership
This is not the first time Goenka has courted controversy during an IPL season. In IPL 2024, he was seen having an animated discussion with then-captain KL Rahul after a heavy defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad. Similar scenes have unfolded this season, with Goenka engaging in public discussions with new captain Pant and head coach Justin Langer after matches.
These incidents have led to speculation about internal discord within LSG’s camp. The franchise underwent significant changes ahead of IPL 2025, parting ways with Rahul and signing Pant for a record ₹27 crore at the mega auction. However, early signs suggest that these changes have yet to yield positive results.
Frustration over home conditions
Adding to LSG’s woes is dissatisfaction with their home ground conditions at Ekana Stadium. Mentor Zaheer Khan expressed frustration over the pitch, suggesting it did not favour the home side as expected. Captain Pant also admitted that his team fell short by 20-25 runs due to challenges adapting to local conditions.
With two losses in three games and controversies piling up off the field, LSG face mounting pressure as they prepare for their next fixture against Mumbai Indians on Friday. The franchise must regroup quickly and address both its on-field struggles and leadership issues if it hopes to turn its season around.
