‘This is Not the Same LSG that Existed in 2025, it's a Different Team’: Dr Sanjiv Goenka

Lucknow Super Giants are looking at a complete reset ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season, with owner Dr. Sanjiv Goenka underlining a shift in mindset, preparation and identity within the franchise.

Speaking on ‘TATA IPL Today Live’ on JioHotstar, Dr. Goenka emphasised the transformation, and said, “We wanted a reset. It was a reset of not really the visual look and feel but the approach, and we wanted to sort of get a clear message that this is not the same LSG that existed in 2025.”

“It's a different LSG. Our logo is inspired by mythology, spirituality, call it whatever you may. We feel very good about it. What it does is it defines a new season, and an improved mindset,” he added.

The optimism around the squad composition has further strengthened belief within the camp.

“I think the balance that we have in the squad. A great strategist (Tom Moody) and when I meet the players, the positivity that I am getting from them, you can say its confidence, you can say its positivity, you can say its energy, but I see a lot of enthusiasm and if I may say, quiet confidence,” Dr. Goenka said.

How have IPL 2025 lessons reshaped Lucknow Super Giants’ preparations?

Tom Moody acknowledged that lessons from the previous season have shaped the team’s preparations this year.

“I think a lot of the lessons obviously for me is in the rear view mirror as I was not part of it, but having spoken to Mr. Goenka down to the system here in Lucknow, it is very clear that the preparation leading into the 2025 season wasn’t as good as it could’ve been.”

Moody highlighted improvements in both personnel and planning. “We’ve got a generous and high quality fast bowling attack and we have added to that through a trade in the off-season with Mohammad Shami, who can lead that group and show them the way forward,” Moody said.

“I think all those areas that we feel were potential areas that we could improve, we’ve put in place with a new medical team and earlier approach in preparation for our first game. So we are finding at this point, all of those fast bowlers are giving us a headache in terms of which one we are picking,” he added.

What were the key positives for Lucknow Super Giants despite injuries?

Reflecting on the previous campaign, Dr. Goenka pointed out both resilience and areas of concern.

“The positives were all our frontline bowlers, despite them being injured we won four out of our first six games,” he said.

“There were some bold moves. Aiden Markram and Mitch Marsh opening, which was not their normal position and for both of them it was their best IPL season ever, so there were some very positive takeaways,” he added.

“Digvesh Rathi came in completely new and did well for us, but we did realise that we didn’t have a strong bowling core and we very consciously went for an Indian bowling core this time,” Dr. Goenka added.

A lot will depend upon Lucknow Super Giants’ captain Rishabh Pant, whose instinctive approach has impressed the franchise owner.

“Rishabh to my mind is instinctive. He likes to consult, likes to take advice from people he respects and then he likes to make his own calls. So I think you will see a lot of that, a lot of consultation and a lot of calls made by the captain,” Dr. Goenka said.

Dr. Goenka also stressed the need for collective performance after a season where individual brilliance often stood out.

“Quite honestly, we are happy with what we have. You could always improve, always aspire to do better and there is no end to improving, but at the end of the day I think it's a squad which has everything that is required,” he said.

“It's now for everyone to come together, and blend as a unit, as opposed to individuals. I think last year there were too many individuals performing, this year we want the team to perform,” he added.

“For a sports team, until you get victory, you don’t get the same amount of respect. If you don’t win, you don’t get that affection. Yes we got to the playoffs, but that’s clearly not good enough. I know you will win some, you will lose some, but we will have to get our first trophy,” he added.

How crucial is a relaxed Rishabh Pant for Lucknow Super Giants’ success?

Meanwhile, head coach Justin Langer believes a more relaxed Pant will be key to unlocking the team’s potential this season.

“If we see Rishabh laughing, smiling and having fun, he’ll be a brilliant captain, and that’s what we learned last year. He (had) joined a new franchise, trying hard to impress, which is natural,” Langer told JioHotstar.

“But we’re already seeing a lighter Rishabh (now). He knows the players now and we have got his back. He’s smiling a lot and dancing. When he’s like that and starts playing cricket, there’s no one more exciting to watch in the world,” the former Australian cricketer added.