KL Rahul Took Charge of LSG Decisions Last Year Reveals Amit Mishra as Sanjiv Goenka Chat Resurfaces

Former India spinner Amit Mishra has finally opened up about the controversial moment between KL Rahul and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka last season, clarifying several misconceptions about the heated exchange. Mishra revealed that Rahul was solely responsible for all major decisions for LSG during IPL 2024, and Goenka’s conversation with the batter was far more supportive than it appeared.

Last year, Goenka faced heavy criticism after cameras captured him engaged in a visibly animated chat with KL Rahul following LSG’s humiliating ten-wicket defeat to SunRisers Hyderabad. The incident sparked widespread speculation about Goenka’s management style. However, speaking on Cricbuzz, Mishra offered a different perspective.

KL Rahul Handled All Team Decisions in 2024

Mishra disclosed that KL Rahul independently took charge of all team strategies last season, including team selection, tactical changes, and planning match approaches.

“I spoke to the coach last season, and he told me that KL Rahul was doing all the work — from making the playing XI to planning in-game tactics. Everything was handled by him,” Mishra said. “But this year, the environment has changed completely.”

According to Mishra, under the current setup, LSG coach Justin Langer and mentor Zaheer Khan have taken greater responsibility, involving players in discussions and encouraging a collaborative decision-making process.

“This season, you can see Justin Langer speaking to players before matches. Zaheer Khan is actively discussing strategies. It feels like a collective unit now,” Mishra added.

Sanjiv Goenka Wanted Fight, Not Just Results

Mishra also revealed details of the infamous conversation between Goenka and Rahul after their heavy defeat to SRH. Dispelling rumors that Goenka lashed out at the players, Mishra clarified that the LSG owner merely urged the team to fight harder on the field.

“People misunderstood that scene. The owner was simply motivating the team. He said losing is part of the game, but the team must always show fight and spirit,” Mishra explained. “Even after losing badly in Kolkata and Hyderabad, he entered the dressing room with positivity, asking us to play fearlessly.”

The former spinner emphasized that Goenka never raised his voice or criticized the players harshly, contrasting the image created by viral videos.

“The media showed too much drama. There was no shouting or humiliation. He only encouraged the team to be competitive,” Mishra stated.

Rahul-Goenka Dynamic in IPL 2025

The dynamic between KL Rahul and Sanjiv Goenka once again drew attention this season after LSG’s loss to Delhi Capitals. Cameras captured Goenka attempting to speak to Rahul post-match, but the India batter quickly shook hands and moved toward the dugout, hinting at possible tension.

Lucknow Super Giants’ inconsistent form has further fueled speculation. The team suffered a 54-run defeat against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium on Sunday and currently sits sixth on the points table.

A New Chapter for LSG?

Despite the setbacks, LSG appears to be embracing a more unified leadership model this year. With Zaheer Khan and Justin Langer more actively involved, the franchise hopes to stabilize performances and mount a strong challenge for the playoffs.

Meanwhile, Rahul’s role seems to have shifted slightly, allowing him to focus more on his game rather than carrying the burden of complete team management.

As the IPL 2025 season heats up, all eyes will remain on LSG’s fortunes — and on whether the franchise can move past last year’s turbulence to create a fresh legacy.

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