LSG did not had analysts, it was all Gautam Gambhir's team: Sanjiv Goenka

Gautam Gambhir will probably be known more for his on-field brawl with Virat Kohli as Lucknow Super Giants mentor, than his contribution to the team. The veteran moved out of LSG camp and joined Kolkata Knight Riders as Riders clinched the IPL 2024 title. As of now, Gambhir is Team India’s Head Coach, and LSG’s owner, Sanjiv Goenka has lauded the former southpaw for creating a balanced team. 

LSG came into being alongside Gujarat Titans in 2022. The franchise was bought and Gambhir was appointed just days before the season commenced. Though GT went on to secure the IPL 2022 trophy, Supergiants made it to the playoffs. The 42-year-old continued his association in the 2023 season as well and the team faltered in playoffs again. Despite no title to the franchise’s name, Goenka highlighted Gambhir’s efforts despite having no analysts at their disposal. 

"Gautam has played a significant role in building the side's foundation. If you consider our first auction successful, it is only because of Gautam. We got the franchise barely two weeks before the auctions. We did not have an analyst or a research team. It was all Gautam Gambhir's team,” said Goenka while speaking to SportsTak.

“He did everything and put together a very balanced team. Everyone has specific roles and Gautam played his part exceptionally well," he added.

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I am surprised this meeting is getting lot of attention: Goenka

After LSG kneeled against Sunrisers Hyderabad’s lethal batting in an IPL 2024 game, more than the sorry loss, Goenka’s animated talk with skipper KL Rahul caught everyone’s attention. Rahul seemed clueless as Goenka spurred his emotions out. Later, the duo met for a dinner amidst fans’ call for Rahul to move out. The LSG owner shed light on the development and called the 32-year-old an integral part of the team.  

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"I have been meeting KL on and off regularly over the last three years. Frankly, I am surprised this meeting is getting a lot of attention [in the media]. He is integral [to LSG]. He has been here since the inception. For me personally and for [my son] Shashwat [Goenka, who is also involved in running LSG], he is like family,” Goenka concluded.