Last Updated: September 13, 2026 06:01 PM
Franchise owners rarely open up about player departures so candidly. This latest conversation has genuinely warmed the hearts of many fans. Here is the complete story behind this heartfelt reaction.
Sanjiv Goenka Reacts to Rishabh Pant’s Delhi Capitals Transfer
Sanjiv Goenka breaks his silence on Rishabh Pant’s Delhi Capitals transfer with genuine warmth. Pant had joined LSG for a record ₹27 crore back in 2025. He became captain after replacing KL Rahul during that same season.
However, LSG missed the playoffs in both the 2025 and 2026 IPL seasons. Rishabh Pant’s Delhi Capitals transfer eventually happened for ₹15 crore this year. Meanwhile, Kuldeep Yadav moved from Delhi Capitals to LSG simultaneously.
Goenka Reacts on Their Personal Relationship
Goenka discussed his equation with Pant during a recent podcast appearance. He revealed their final conversation wasn’t just about completing this trade. Goenka confirmed they still communicate regularly even after Pant’s recent departure.
“Our last conversation wasn’t just about the trade. We have continued to speak even after that. Good luck to him and best wishes (on the conversation). We plan to have dinner one of these days,” Goenka said.
He said there’s no significant bitterness between them following this transfer. They’re reportedly even planning to have dinner together sometime soon. Goenka said moments like these rarely happen so openly among franchise owners.
Understanding the Rishabh Pant Trade and Its Context
Goenka described himself as genuinely fond of Pant as a person. He praised Pant’s innocent, almost childlike personality away from cricket entirely. He mentioned Pant’s affectionate nature and love for spontaneous, playful pranks.
“I’m very fond of him [Rishabh Pant]. He has an innocence about him. He is almost childlike. He can come and hold you from behind with love, just like a child would. He can also come from anywhere and prank you. That’s the kind of person he is.”
Despite this warmth, the Rishabh Pant trade followed a disappointing two-season LSG stint. The team missed the playoffs both years, while Pant also struggled for consistency.
Pant’s Continued Excellence in Test Cricket
Beyond franchise cricket, Pant continues to excel brilliantly in Test cricket recently. India won their Sri Lanka series 1-0, winning at Galle initially. Pant surpassed MS Dhoni as India’s highest-scoring wicketkeeper in away Tests.
His tally reached 2,534 runs at an average above 41. He also passed Adam Gilchrist to become cricket’s third-highest six-hitter ever. This achievement adds further shine to his already impressive international career.
Overall, his LSG departure remains disappointing, but personal bonds clearly remain unaffected.
