
Fri Apr 04 17:30:00 UTC 2025: ## IPL Founder Slams Lucknow Super Giants Owner Sanjiv Goenka for On-Field Behaviour
**Mumbai, India** – Lalit Modi, founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), has launched a scathing attack on Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka, criticizing his public interactions with players. Modi’s comments follow a recent match where Goenka was seen engaging in a heated discussion with LSG captain Rishabh Pant after a loss to Punjab Kings.
Sharing memes highlighting Goenka’s perceived aggressive behavior towards players, Modi called for the IPL governing council to reprimand and fine Goenka, referring to him as a “clown” and stating his conduct was “completely unheard of” and “shameful.” He contrasted Goenka’s behaviour with that of Harsh Goenka (no relation), whom he lauded as a true cricket lover.
Former Indian cricketer Madan Lal echoed these sentiments, urging Goenka to resolve such matters privately within the team. While a video showing Goenka subsequently supporting Pant and motivating the team has also emerged, the initial criticism highlights concerns about the owner’s public interactions with players.
The controversy comes amidst a disappointing season for Pant, the most expensive player in IPL history, whose performance has been far below expectations. LSG has only won one of its three matches so far. The incident underscores the growing debate about the conduct of team owners and their impact on player morale and performance within the high-pressure environment of the IPL.