In the midst of swirling rumours about Rishabh Pant potentially being appointed as the next captain of the Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2025, franchise owner Sanjiv Goenka threw in a new approach on why Pant should lead the team. He mentioned Pant alongside three other players, Nicholas Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, and Aiden Markram as the “leaders of the team.”
Pant, who was acquired for a record-breaking Rs. 27 crore by LSG, made history at the IPL 2025 mega auction, becoming the most expensive player ever. It was widely believed that with KL Rahul’s exit, the Indian wicketkeeper would be an obvious choice for captaincy. Sanjiv Goenka shared insights into the team’s auction strategy in a discussion with Aakash Chopra on YouTube.
Suspense over Captaincy Decision
Although it might indeed be true that Pant is the frontrunner, the final decision remains under wraps, with Goenka maintaining an air of mystery. He continues to keep fans guessing, stating he will “announce it soon,” but by naming Markram, Marsh, and Pooran—along with their substantial price tags—he has certainly fueled the public’s curiosity ahead of the big reveal.
Rishabh Pant was always anticipated as a top choice. What truly captured Goenka’s attention was Pant’s strategic involvement in matches. Known for his game-changing antics, like slowing down the pace to disrupt the opponents, Pant’s theatricality on the field impressed Goenka. “I liked that attitude a lot,” he said, referring to a specific incident.
On Rishabh Pant, he said, “I saw a video of Rishabh where he did dramebaazi (acting) on the field. He slowed the momentum. I liked that attitude a lot, that you have that extra thought to change the momentum when everything was going against us by removing the pads. From that time, I had in my mind that if only Rishabh had been in my team”.
Top buys at IPL 2025 auction
Highlighting the top purchases at the IPL 2025 auction, Rishabh Pant leads the list with a hefty Rs.27 Cr, followed by other notable names like Shreyas Iyer and Venkatesh Iyer. These players, highlighted with their respective performances, add more excitement to this year’s tournament.
Goenka emphasised the team’s robust leadership with the inclusion of four leaders—Pant, Pooran, Markram, and Marsh—creating a deep pool of leadership intellect and strategy. He praised Pant for his hunger and passion, contributing to a well-balanced team. “No team is 10 on 10,” he remarked, but the current composition seems very promising.
He expressed satisfaction with the auction outcomes, especially with a strong middle order and a preference for an Indian pace attack complemented by explosive international batsmen. “Our internal feeling is that our auction was excellent,” he said.
Pant’s resilience and future with LSG
Pant’s return from a serious injury, showcasing resilience and an improved form, significantly appealed to Goenka. He appreciated Pant’s fighting spirit and envisioned a long-term association with LSG, hoping for Pant’s presence for the next 10-12 years.
