Sanjiv Goenka is facing massive flak for insulting KL Rahul during the SRH vs LSG match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad. The owner of the Lucknow-based team verbally abused captain Rahul on the field of play, sparking angry reactions from fans and cricketers alike.
The right-hander played a Test innings against Hyderabad in which the visitors posted 165/4 in 20 overs.
SRH completed the chase in 9.4 overs without losing a wicket. The Pat Cummins-led franchise's total dominance was not taken lightly by Goenka, who surprisingly batted in KL despite knowing that all the players were still on the field and the cameras were rolling.
Team India pacer Mohammed Shami, who is out of action due to injury, didn't hold back either, calling Sanjiv's action shameless:
“You can’t insult KL Rahul. He is one of the star Indian players and no ordinary cricketer. There is a way to say things. If you wanted to talk to KL Rahul, you could have done it in the dressing room or at the hotel.”
There are reports that Rahul will leave the team after the 17th season. Meanwhile, Lucknow is still in the playoff hunt. With 12 points from 12 matches, they need to win their remaining matches to make it to the next round.