Sanjiv Goenka confirms rejecting Rishabh Pant’s request to buy Matheesha Pathirana at IPL Auction

Sanjiv Goenka confirms rejecting Rishabh Pant’s request to buy Matheesha Pathirana at IPL Auction

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) entered the IPL 2026 mini auction with a clear target in mind – Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana. The team, led by captain Rishabh Pant, was keen on securing Pathirana’s services for the upcoming season. However, despite a strong push from the LSG camp, including owner Sanjiv Goenka, the franchise had to bow out of the bidding war at ₹17.8 crore, hitting their financial limit.

Pathirana, who had a base price of ₹2 crore, was one of the most sought-after players at the mini auction held in Abu Dhabi on December 16. The bidding war saw interest from multiple franchises, with Delhi Capitals (DC) and LSG going head-to-head before Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) swooped in and signed Pathirana for ₹18 crore, making him one of the most expensive buys of the auction.

The Sri Lankan fast bowler was released by the Chennai Super Kings after the 2025 season, surprising many fans as CSK did not make an attempt to retain him. Despite missing out on Pathirana, the LSG camp found solace in securing South African pacer Anrich Nortje at his base price, a decision that owner Sanjiv Goenka deemed strategic and well-thought-out.

Goenka revealed, “Our captain and vice-captain were very keen on Matheesha Pathirana, as were we. However, missing out on him allowed us to later secure Anrich Nortje, which was a pleasant surprise for us. It was a considered decision, and we are pleased with how things turned out.”

Pathirana, known for his pace and swing, has faced injury concerns in recent seasons, limiting his playing time in the IPL. Despite his setbacks, he has managed to take 47 wickets in 32 IPL innings at an economy rate of 8.68. The upcoming season will see Pathirana don a new jersey for the first time in his IPL career.

LSG’s strategy heading into the auction was clear – to secure a quality international leg-spinner and a reputed international fast bowler. Their primary targets included Wanindu Hasaranga and either Matheesha Pathirana or Anrich Nortje. While they missed out on Pathirana, the team is delighted to have acquired both Nortje and Hasaranga, who were part of their final shortlist.

In addition to Nortje and Hasaranga, LSG also bagged Josh Inglis, Mukul Choudhary, Akshat Raghuwanshi, and Naman Tiwari at the mini auction. The team is confident in its squad composition and is looking forward to a successful campaign in the upcoming IPL season.

The Importance of Strategic Planning in IPL Auctions

Strategic planning plays a crucial role in the success of any IPL team, especially during auctions where teams have limited budgets and must make quick decisions under pressure. Lucknow Super Giants’ approach to the 2026 mini auction exemplifies the importance of having a clear target in mind while also being flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances.

Owner Sanjiv Goenka’s willingness to bow out of the bidding war for Matheesha Pathirana at the right moment and pivot to securing Anrich Nortje demonstrates the team’s strategic thinking and ability to make informed decisions on the fly. While missing out on a key target can be disappointing, being able to capitalize on other opportunities can often lead to unexpected gains, as was the case with Nortje.

Moreover, the LSG management’s transparency in sharing their thought process with fans and stakeholders showcases a level of accountability and rational decision-making that is essential in building trust and confidence in the team’s leadership.

The Evolution of IPL Strategies

The IPL has evolved significantly over the years, with teams becoming increasingly sophisticated in their approach to player auctions. Gone are the days when teams would splurge on marquee players without a clear strategy in place. Today, franchises meticulously analyze player performances, form, injury history, and team dynamics to create a balanced and competitive squad.

LSG’s focus on securing a quality international leg-spinner and fast bowler highlights the importance of having a well-rounded bowling attack in T20 cricket. While flashy batsmen often steal the limelight, it is the bowlers who can make or break a team’s chances in a high-scoring format like the IPL.

By targeting players like Wanindu Hasaranga and Anrich Nortje, LSG has shown a commitment to building a strong bowling unit that can complement their existing strengths. The team’s emphasis on strategic acquisitions rather than just big-name signings bodes well for their long-term success in the tournament.

The Impact of Injuries on Player Performances

Injuries are an inevitable part of any sport, and they can have a significant impact on a player’s performance and career trajectory. Matheesha Pathirana, despite his talent and potential, has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, which may have influenced CSK’s decision to release him.

For LSG, missing out on Pathirana due to injury concerns could be a blessing in disguise, as they now have a fit and firing Anrich Nortje in their ranks. Nortje’s consistency and pace make him a valuable asset in the fast-paced world of T20 cricket, and his addition to the team could bolster LSG’s bowling attack significantly.

In conclusion, the IPL auction is a high-stakes event that requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and adaptability. Lucknow Super Giants’ approach to the 2026 mini auction serves as a valuable lesson in the importance of having a clear strategy, being flexible in decision-making, and capitalizing on opportunities as they arise. With a well-rounded squad and a mix of experience and youth, LSG is poised to make a strong impact in the upcoming IPL season.

Latest News