IPL 2026, LSG vs DC: Rishabh Pant-led Lucknow Super Giants suffered a disappointing defeat in their IPL 2026 opener on Wednesday, as Delhi Capitals bundled them out for just 141 and chased the target in 17.1 overs to seal a six-wicket win.
Following the loss, LSG skipper Rishabh Pant was seen in an animated discussion with franchise owner Sanjiv Goenka, a moment that instantly reminded fans of the infamous exchange between former captain KL Rahul and Goenka during IPL 2024.
After winning the toss, Delhi Capitals opted to bowl first. LSG surprised many by opening with Rishabh Pant alongside Mitchell Marsh. However, the move backfired early as Pant was run out at the non-striker's end for 7 (9).
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LSG's batting unit struggled for momentum throughout the innings, though Mitchell Marsh (35 off 28) and Abdul Samad (36 off 25) provided some resistance. Despite their efforts, regular wickets derailed the innings, with LSG getting bowled out for 141 in 18.4 overs.
Post-match visuals of Pant and Goenka discussing strategy on the field quickly went viral on social media. The duo was also joined by LSG head coach and Australian great Justin Langer. WATCH VIDEO:
Goenka Backs Pant, Urges Team To Bounce Back
Franchise owner Sanjiv Goenka threw his weight behind the captain and the team, expressing confidence in a turnaround.
"This is a long season, and moments like these are part of building something meaningful. I have full confidence in our captain and the team to respond strongly. To our fans, thank you for your support at Ekana, we will come back stronger. The story of @LucknowIPL this season is far from written," Goenka posted on X.
IPL 2026: LSG vs DC Match Summary
Chasing 142, the Delhi Capitals suffered an early jolt as Mohammad Shami dismissed KL Rahul off the very first ball of the innings. It marked the fifth time Shami has achieved this feat, making him the only bowler in IPL history to take a wicket on the opening delivery on five occasions.
LSG bowlers Mohsin Khan and Prince Yadav supported Shami well, removing Nitish Rana, Pathum Nissanka and skipper Axar Patel in quick succession. At 26/4 inside five overs, DC appeared in deep trouble, with the pitch offering significant assistance to the bowlers.
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However, youngster Sameer Rizvi and South Africa's Tristan Stubbs turned the game around with a composed partnership. Rizvi took charge of the scoring, playing an aggressive, unbeaten knock of 70 off 47 balls, while Stubbs (39 off 32) anchored the innings from the other end. Their stand guided Delhi Capitals to a comfortable six-wicket victory with 17 balls to spare.