Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer's sister Shresta on Tuesday responded to online backlash over her viral social media video posted after PBKS' rain-hit IPL 2026 match against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens ended in a no-result.
The abandoned contest on Monday handed KKR their first point of the season after both teams split points. Soon after the washout, Shresta, wearing a Punjab Kings jersey, posted a light-hearted clip that retained the rivalry’s sharp edge without stepping beyond humour. In the video, she said,
"Saade Punjabiyan da dil vadda hunda ae. Lo, ditta ek point. (We Punjabis are big-hearted. So, we gave you a point)."
Shresta issues clarification after backlash
A day later, Shresta returned to Instagram Stories to address the criticism, underlining that the reel was intended as banter and not as a dig at Kolkata Knight Riders or their supporters. Sresta said,
"Guys, I don't understand why hate is being spread. I mean, it's just a game. The videos being made 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."
She followed it up by reiterating that rivalry and humour can coexist without crossing into abuse. She added,
"I understand aggression. I wasn't trolling anybody. It was my way of celebrating, and I am going to continue doing that. I am just here to say no hate for anybody - only love. It's a game; we all should have fun. The rivalry should show, no matter what. There were no personal attacks. Just chill. Peace out, guys."
PBKS’ start draws Chopra’s praise
The off-field buzz came as Punjab Kings’ early-season form continued to attract attention. Former India batter Aakash Chopra described PBKS as "one of the teams to beat" after they opened IPL 2026 with two wins and then shared points with KKR in the washout.
Chopra, speaking on JioHotstar, credited the side’s batting template built around emerging Indian players and the leadership combination of Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting. He said,
"Punjab Kings are definitely one of the teams to beat. They were outstanding last season, reached the final, and have started this season strongly as well. What makes them different is their batting. They rely heavily on young Indian players with limited international experience, supported by overseas players, and yet it all comes together really well."