Lucknow Super Giants find themselves in a precarious position as IPL 2026 reaches its business end, with captain Rishabh Pant candidly acknowledging the team's struggles while expressing empathy for owner Sanjiv Goenka.

Speaking at the toss ahead of their clash against Mumbai Indians at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Monday, Pant didn't shy away from the harsh reality: LSG have managed just two wins from eight matches, leaving their playoff hopes hanging by a thread. To keep their campaign alive, they'll need to win every remaining game and rely on other results going their way—a tall order in the unforgiving environment of the IPL.

But beyond the scoreboard, Pant highlighted the emotional toll on team owner Sanjiv Goenka, known for his deep passion for the sport. "It's been a tough season for us, and there is no running away from that," Pant said. "But one person who has had the most difficult time is our owner, Mr. Goenka. He's one of those guys—everyone knows how passionate he is about cricket and about his team."

Pant's words reflected a sense of responsibility and a desire to turn things around for the fans and the ownership. "We let down our fans. The only promise from this break is that we're going to give our 200%, try to bring that happiness back, and hopefully we can do it for our owner and the fans for sure," he added.

Unfortunately for LSG, the match itself offered little respite. Mumbai Indians, powered by sublime half-centuries from openers Rohit Sharma (84 off 44 balls) and Ryan Rickelton (83 off 32 balls), chased down LSG's formidable total of 228 for five with 1.2 overs to spare. The 143-run opening stand proved decisive as MI cruised to a six-wicket victory—their third win in 10 matches—while LSG remained rooted to the bottom of the table with just four points from nine outings.

For LSG, the road ahead is steep, but Pant's rallying cry suggests a team determined to fight for pride, their passionate owner, and the fans who continue to believe.