Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka and KL Rahul were involved in a terse exchange last year in the IPL after LSG's crushing defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). During the conversation, it appeared the former was publicly rebuking the India batter, who is now with Delhi Capitals (DC). Former India spinner Amit Mishra recently shed light on the highly-discussed topic and described Goenka as a positive presence who simply wants a fighting spirit from his team.

"I spoke to the coach last season, and he told me that KL Rahul is doing all the work. He is making the 11s, making all the changes, and planning. But this year, I don't feel like that. This year, when Zaheer Khan has come, I feel like he is talking to everyone. If you see, there is a discussion going on, they are talking to each other," Mishra said on Cricbuzz.

Addressing the Mishra explained: "I feel that the media has shown off a little too much. I didn't feel that there was anything negative like that. But if there is any owner, he says that losing is okay, but just go out there and show some fight. Fight and lose, I have no problem. This is what people told me. This is what happened."

"Even after losing badly in Kolkata and Hyderabad, the owner came into the dressing room and motivated the team. He never said anything wrong or in a very high tone," he further added.

Meanwhile, reports of friction resurfaced in IPL 2025 when Rahul made a winning return to Lucknow Super Giants' home ground as DC beat LSG. While heading back to the dugout after a match-winning innings, Goenka was seen attempting to interact with KL Rahul, but the Bengaluru-born star appeared reluctant and hurriedly walked off after a brief handshake.

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