One year can change everything. In 2024, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) faced disappointment after losing to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at home. That loss led to a heated exchange between team owner Sanjiv Goenka and then-captain KL Rahul. However, this year, the atmosphere was completely different. On Thursday, Goenka was all smiles as he hugged current captain Rishabh Pant after LSG secured a five-wicket win over SRH in their second game of IPL 2025.

Pant’s Bold Decision Pays Off

Pant surprised many by choosing to bowl first on the Hyderabad pitch. The decision was risky, especially since Sunrisers had smashed 286 runs in their first match against Rajasthan Royals while batting first. However, LSG’s bowlers, led by Shardul Thakur, justified the decision. They restricted the hosts to 190 for nine in 20 overs.

Thakur, who had gone unsold at the IPL auction last year and later signed a last-minute deal with LSG, delivered a stunning performance. He took four wickets, proving his worth.

Pooran and Marsh Seal the Chase

Chasing 191, Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh dominated the SRH bowlers. Both smashed their second consecutive half-centuries, making the chase look effortless. LSG reached the target with 23 balls to spare.

Goenka’s Joyful Reaction

After the match, Goenka couldn't contain his happiness. He hugged Pant tightly while team mentor Zaheer Khan smiled, witnessing the moment. The three then had a brief conversation before heading to the post-match presentation.

This cheerful moment stood in sharp contrast to Goenka’s tense discussion with Pant a few days ago. After LSG’s heartbreaking loss to Delhi Capitals in their season opener in Vizag, fans feared another KL Rahul moment.

Rahul’s Departure and Fresh Beginnings

Rahul’s strained relationship with Goenka last year led to his exit from LSG. The franchise released him before the IPL auction in November 2024. Delhi Capitals then signed him for INR 14 crore.

Pant Breathes a Sigh of Relief

Winning his first match as LSG captain was a huge relief for Pant. He acknowledged Thakur’s performance and praised Prince Yadav, who dismissed Travis Head on his IPL debut.

“Big relief but as a team we talk about the process. It’s not about getting too high when you win and not about getting too low when you lose. As a team, we can’t focus on uncontrollables, my mentor said focus on controllables and that is what I did. Good to see the way Prince bowled and also Thakur was really good,” Pant said.

With this victory, LSG has bounced back in IPL 2025. Now, all eyes are on their next challenge.