IPL 2026: 'It was my way of celebration' - Shreyas Iyer's sister issues clarification after backlash on KKR post

CricTracker

newspoint|08-04-2026


Shreyas Iyer’s sister Shresta has become the centre of a controversy following a video uploaded on social media after the Punjab Kings’ match against the Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens.

After the game was washed out, she posted a video on Instagram, and was quoted saying “Saade Punjabiyan da dil vadda hunda hai, lo de ditta ek point,” which translates to “Punjabis have a big heart. Take the one point.”

Following the backlash, Shresta took to Instagram, saying that she did not mean to offend anybody, and that it was just her way of celebrating the game and supporting her brother, Shreyas. 

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A post shared by Shresta Iyer (@shrestaiyer29)

It's just a game. The videos are just for fun, and I am here to support my brother. I will continue to do that. No hate for any team, it's just a game. Everyone should take it sportingly,” said Shresta in a video shared on Instagram Stories.

“I understand aggression. I wasn't trolling anybody. It was my way of celebration, and I am going to continue doing that. I am just here to say no hate for anybody. Only love is a game. We all should have fun. The rivalry should show, no matter what.

There were no personal attacks, just chill. Peace out, guys,” she added.

The Punjab Kings had reduced the Knight Riders to 25/2 in 3.4 overs before rain played spoilsport. KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane’s decision to bat first on a wicket in overcast conditions also under scrutiny.

After winning their first two games, the washout means that the Punjab Kings’ unbeaten status in IPL 2026 remains intact.

They take on the Sunrisers Hyderabad at the New PCA Stadium in Mullanpur on April 11.