LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka in animated chat with Rishabh Pant and coaching staff after loss to DC: watch video

Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) losing streak against Delhi Capitals (DC) continued as the hosts lost by six wickets in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign opener. After the defeat, LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka was seen having an animated conversation with skipper Rishabh Pant, head coach Justin Langer-led coaching staff.

Goenka, who had faced criticism for venting out his frustration at former captain KL Rahul after an IPL 2024 match, was at the Ekana Cricket Stadium cheering for his team. But, in the low-scoring game, Sameer Rizvi and Tristan Stubbs’ unbeaten 119-run partnership helped DC chase down the target with 17 balls to spare.

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LSG’s batting falters

Earlier, Axar Patel won the toss and opted to bowl first. LSG lost half the side for 71. Mitchell Marsh and Abdul Samad contributed with 30s but other batters disappointed. Lungi Ngidi and T Natarajan claimed thee wickets each as LSG were bowled out for 141 in 18.4 overs.

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Rizvi-Stubbs’ record rescue act

In the run chase, DC suffered a collapse as well. Rahul and skipper Axar departed for golden ducks. Pathum Nissanka was dismissed for one run on his IPL debut whereas Nitish Rana scored 15 on his homecoming. DC lost four wickets for 26 runs in the fifth over.

But, Stubbs absorbed the pressure, allowing Rizvi to play freely. In the 14th over, Rizvi completed his fifty from 38 balls. Rizvi and Stubbs accelerated and ensured DC got over the line with plenty of balls to spare. Their 119-run partnership is DC's highest for fifth wicket or lower. Also, it is the second-highest stand in IPL history after a team has lost four wickets under 30 runs.

Pant on defeat in campaign opener

After the defeat, Pant rued not having enough runs on the board to put DC under pressure.

“There was enough help with the new ball. But you can't put pressure on the opposition with 140. 20 extras hurt, at the same time, you try too much on a wicket like this and are trying to restrict them under 140,” the wicketkeeper-batter said in the post-match presentation.

LSG's next game is against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 5.