Before the start of IPL 2026, Sanjeev Goenka, the owner of the Lucknow Super Giants, addressed rumors regarding captain Rishabh Pant potentially leaving the team. He categorically stated that Pant is not leaving and dismissed the speculations circulating on social media as mere rumors that he finds amusing. Goenka emphasized that during the IPL season, he often becomes the target of such gossip, and he believes many social media platforms seek views rather than provide accurate information.

Goenka also pointed out that IPL 2025 was particularly challenging for Pant, who ended the season with the lowest runs since 2017, amassing only 269 runs in 14 matches. Furthermore, Pant's leadership was questioned as the Lucknow team finished seventh out of ten teams, impacted by injuries particularly among their fast bowlers. Goenka defended Pant, suggesting that without a strong bowling unit, it is unfair to hold the captain solely responsible for the team's performance issues.

The discussion highlights the pressures and challenges team owners and players face amid fans' expectations and media scrutiny during IPL seasons. Goenka's light-hearted approach to the rumors emphasizes the often speculative nature of sports commentary in social media environments.