NEW DELHI: The clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants not only witnessed a resounding 10-wicket victory for the former but also sparked controversy post-match as LSG owner
Sanjiv Goenka
was captured engaging in a visibly heated exchange with captain
KL Rahul
.
The incident drew sharp criticism, with India's star pacer
Mohammed Shami
taking a firm stand in support of his teammate and condemning Goenka's actions.
"Players have respect, and you are a respectful person, too, as you are an owner. Many people are watching you and learning from you. If these things happen in front of cameras… ye sharam ki baat hai. It's a matter of shame," Shami remarked on Cricbuzz, emphasizing the need to maintain dignity, especially in public settings.
Shami further asserted that grievances could have been addressed privately, rather than publicly reprimanding the captain. "If you have to do that, there are many different ways. You could've done the same thing in the dressing room or the hotel. It wasn't necessary to do it on the field," he added.
Backing Rahul, Shami emphasized the unpredictability of sports and criticized public criticism of the team's leadership.
"He's the captain, too, not a normal player. It's a team game; if the plan isn't successful, it isn't a big thing. Anything is possible in the game. I understand there can be good or bad days, but every player has respect, and there's a way to talk. This sends a very wrong message," Shami emphasized.
The incident has cast a shadow over Lucknow Super Giants' playoff aspirations, with the team facing an uphill battle to secure a spot in the playoffs. Currently placed sixth on the table with six wins and as many losses, LSG face stiff competition from teams like Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their bid for playoff spot.
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