Former Australia head coach Justin Langer readily expressed his enthusiasm for Rishabh Pant's remarkable performances during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, particularly in response to Pant's daring shots. Langer viewed Pant not merely as India's wicketkeeper-batter but also as the key asset for his IPL team, the Lucknow Super Giants, in their quest for the prestigious league trophy. Following a competitive bidding war in last year's mega auction, Pant became the most expensive player in IPL history, commanding a price of ₹27 crore. It was evident that LSG required a new captain after three lackluster seasons under KL Rahul, and they recognized Pant as their prime opportunity.

Thus, it was a mere formality for LSG to appoint Pant as their captain. However, the remarks made by owner Sanjiv Goenka during the announcement carried significant weight. Goenka expressed his expectation that Pant would represent LSG for the next "14-15 years" and secure "at least five titles." “Surely Rishabh Pant will play for at least 14-15 years for us, we hope at least five IPL titles in these years," Goenka stated.

While he may have overstated the length of the 27-year-old Pant's tenure at LSG, the confidence shown in Pant as a leader is noteworthy, especially considering that Goenka had previously removed the legendary MS Dhoni from captaincy after just one unsatisfactory season.

Pant to outperform Dhoni and Rohit in IPL: Goenka

The direct comparisons with MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma were impossible to overlook. "Many assert that MI and CSK have achieved greater success. Both Mahi and Rohit are undoubtedly exceptional. I predict that in ten years, people will mention Mahi, Rohit, and Rishabh," stated Goenka.

Dhoni has guided the Chennai Super Kings to an unprecedented five IPL championships, while Rohit has achieved the same milestone with the Mumbai Indians. As the new IPL season approaches next month, Goenka has expressed his hope for Pant to become one of the most successful captains in the tournament's future.

"I firmly believe that time will demonstrate he is not only the most successful player in IPL history but will also be recognized as the best player overall. I have not encountered players with such passion and desire to win," he remarked.

Pant is well-acquainted with captaincy responsibilities. He led the Delhi Capitals in the last three IPL seasons before opting to part ways. While his initial appointment as captain in 2021 was somewhat serendipitous—following Shreyas Iyer's injury—his current role is intentional. The left-handed batsman has an impressive captaincy record with the Delhi Capitals, having overseen 43 matches, winning 24, and losing 19, resulting in a win percentage of 56%.

In addition to the captaincy, Pant will face increased pressure due to the significant price tag he commanded. In previous seasons, some stars have faltered under the weight of their financial valuation and failed to meet the expectations associated with it.

However, Goenka offers a different perspective on Pant's price tag. He believes that discussions regarding the cost ceased once the auction in Jeddah concluded. 

"The price tag became irrelevant once the auction was over. Every team has invested 120 crores. It does not matter how much is spent on an individual player compared to others," he stated.

According to the LSG owner, Pant's thought process, which doesn't fall in the realm of conventional, will play its part in making Pant one of the best skippers that the IPL has ever seen.

"His thought process is a little different. If you go with a conventional thought process, then it isn't unique. I see an in-born leader in him. According to me, he will be the best captain that IPL has ever seen," he added.

There were a couple of franchises, including Punjab Kings and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who were in contention to secure Pant's services. But eventually, it was LSG's resolve that saw Pant move from Delhi to Lucknow.

"I was clear that I wanted him, and I would take it," Goenka stated.

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