Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka displayed a much calmer demeanor despite his team's loss in Match 64 of IPL 2024, a stark contrast to his previous interaction with captain KL Rahul. Gone were the heated discussions – this time, Goenka engaged in a casual chat with Rahul, even after the captain's batting struggles in the chase against Delhi Capitals (DC). LSG suffered a 19-run defeat against Rishabh Pant-led DC, which all but eliminated them from IPL 2024's playoff race on May 14.
A different Sanjiv Goenka-KL Rahul chat witnessed after DC vs LSG clash
Goenka even offered a patient ear as Rahul analysed LSG's defeat against DC.
Sanjiv Goenka's public outburst towards KL Rahul after their loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) caused a stir among the fans on social media and the cricket experts where many questioned his conduct towards the star batter. A video that went viral on social media, which captured a heated conversation between Goenka and Rahul at the Ekana Stadium following a match loss. The video showed Goenka apparently reprimanding Rahul, leading to widespread criticism of the owner's behavior towards his captain.
However, Goenka took a completely different approach this time around. Before their crucial match against Delhi Capitals, Goenka reportedly invited Rahul for dinner. Photos of their warm reunion went viral, showcasing a clear shift in their relationship.
This newfound camaraderie continued during the match. Goenka wasn't just seen calmly discussing the loss with Rahul after the match, but even gave him a standing ovation for a spectacular diving catch that dismissed Shai Hope during Delhi's innings.
DC stay afloat in playoff race, LSG all but out
In a nail-biting finish, DC kept their playoff hopes flickering with a narrow 19-run victory over LSG at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. This iconic ground, known for its small boundaries, couldn't save LSG's batting order as they fell short of the target.
DC set a challenging total of 208 for 4 thanks to stellar batting performances from Abhishek Porel (58), Tristan Stubbs (57*), and Shai Hope (38). The bowlers then backed up the batsmen with a disciplined showing. Ishant Sharma played a crucial role, dismantling LSG's top order with early wickets of Rahul (5) and Quinton de Kock (12). He finished with impressive figures of 3 for 34, while other bowlers like Khaleel Ahmed, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mukesh Kumar, and even Stubbs chipped in with a wicket each, restricting LSG to 189 for 9.
This win keeps DC's playoff dream mathematically alive. They end the season with 14 points (7 wins, 7 losses) and occupy the fifth spot in the standings, just ahead of Royal Challengers Bangalore and Lucknow Super Giants, who are both still in contention for the playoffs. However, with this loss, LSG's chances are slim. Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals have already secured the top two spots in the playoffs, leaving the remaining places up for grabs in a thrilling race to the finish line.
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