From Boardrooms to the Cricket Pitch: Sanjiv Goenka's Ownership Journey with the LSG

A business name that is Sanjiv Goenka himself has become a brand in the sport ownership too. The Chairman of the RPSG-Group, i.e., the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, the roots of Goenka’s association with the IPL can be traced back to the year 2015. However, what was this man's background to get into cricket arena, especially Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)?

The RPSG Group Head Honcho

Goenka was born in 1961. He became well-known due to his family's lengthy career in business. 2011 saw RPG Enterprises form a division and change its name to RPSG Group; Sanjiv Goenka became the group's leader. Apart from retailing, this international firm has a broad variety of interests in electricity generating and carbon black manufacture, with its head office located in Kolkata. Additionally included are the fields of mass media and entertainment.

A Foray into IPL Ownership:

Goenka IPL began in 2015, when CSK and RR, the two teams, were suspended due to charges of corruption. The temporary franchises were implemented for the 2016 and 2017 seasons by the league authorities as Rising Pune Supergiant and Gujarat Lions. The RPSG Group, a Goenka entity, has won the bidding for RPS.

Under MS Dhoni's leadership, the Pune team did well in 2016 but was not able to win the title. Nevertheless, the squad disbanded in 2017 with the lifting of the punishment for RR and CSK.

Calling Lucknow: The Origin of LSG:

Goenka's aspirations for the IPL extended beyond RPS. He took part in the 2021 IPL team bidding process, as did a number of other corporate houses. After winning, the RPSG Group obtained the rights to the Lucknow franchise. With KL Rahul as their captain, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) were established.

An Adoration of Cricket?

Even though Goenka is primarily focused on his business endeavors, his ownership of an IPL team suggests that he has a strong love for cricket. In addition to strengthening the league, the LSG gives aspiring cricket players a platform. Goenka's background in overseeing expansive establishments probably makes a good fit in the fast-paced world of IPL franchise owning.

The transformation of Sanjiv Goenka from business mogul to IPL franchise owner is a testament to his drive for success and dedication to developing cricket in India. Under his direction, the LSG seems like it will be a formidable force in the future.