Mumbai: The sister of Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer, Shresta Iyer, has spoken out against online trolling after her viral video during the IPL 2026 season drew widespread criticism. A professional dancer and choreographer, Shresta found herself at the centre of social media backlash following a light-hearted reel posted after a rain-affected match between Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders.
The match, which was abandoned due to rain, resulted in both teams sharing points. For Kolkata Knight Riders, it marked their first point of the season. In response, Shresta posted a playful video wearing a Punjab Kings jersey, joking in Punjabi, “Saade Punjabiyan da dil vadda hunda ae. Lo, ditta ek point,” implying that Punjabis are generous and had “given” KKR a point.
While the video was intended as humorous banter, it did not go down well with sections of fans, who accused her of mocking the opposition. The backlash quickly escalated, leading to heavy trolling across social media platforms. Eventually, Shresta deleted the video amid growing negativity.
Social media backlash and personal impact
Following the trolling episode, Shresta released a two-part video addressing the issue and clarifying her stance. She emphasised that the reel was never meant to insult or provoke anyone, but rather to engage in harmless fun, a common element in sports culture.
“The motive of the reel was just a fun banter,” she said in her statement. “I wasn’t trolling anyone; I had no bad intentions behind the banter. I respect every cricketer because my brother is a cricketer.”
However, what disturbed her most was the extent of harassment that followed. According to Shresta, the trolling extended beyond social media comments and began affecting her professional and personal life.
“You have been calling my workplace, abusing me, my colleagues, my students, and my family,” she revealed, highlighting the severity of the situation. Her remarks have once again drawn attention to the darker side of online fan culture, where personal boundaries are often crossed.
She further added that her support for her brother remains unwavering, regardless of match results. “He wins or loses, I will always celebrate him. Anytime the trolls target families, which is not right,” she said.
Punjab Kings’ campaign and elimination
The controversy unfolded during a challenging phase for Punjab Kings in IPL 2026. The team had started their campaign strongly, remaining unbeaten in their first seven matches and emerging as early contenders for a playoff spot. However, their form took a dramatic downturn as they suffered six consecutive defeats, derailing their season.
Despite a late resurgence, including a crucial win against Lucknow Super Giants, Punjab Kings could not secure qualification for the playoffs. In that match, captain Shreyas Iyer delivered a standout performance with an unbeaten 101, guiding his team to a seven-wicket victory.
The win, though significant, was not enough to change their fortunes. Punjab Kings finished fifth on the points table with 15 points from 14 matches, narrowly missing out on a playoff berth.
Growing concerns over online trolling
Shresta Iyer’s experience reflects a broader issue faced by families of athletes, who often become unintended targets of fan reactions. While cricket in India commands immense passion and engagement, the line between criticism and harassment is increasingly being blurred.
Experts and former players have frequently called for more responsible behaviour from fans, particularly on digital platforms. The incident also underscores the need for stronger safeguards against online abuse, especially when it spills over into real-life consequences such as workplace harassment.
Shresta’s decision to speak out has been supported by many on social media, with users condemning the trolling and urging others to respect personal boundaries. Her clarification has also helped shift the narrative, reminding fans that not every social media post should be taken out of context.
Conclusion
The episode involving Shresta Iyer serves as a reminder of the intense scrutiny that surrounds cricket in India and the unintended consequences it can have on individuals connected to the sport. While her original video was meant as harmless banter, the backlash highlights the importance of empathy and restraint in online interactions.
As IPL continues to grow in popularity, such incidents underline the need for a more balanced fan culture—one that celebrates the game without resorting to personal attacks. Shresta’s response, meanwhile, stands as a firm message against online abuse and in favour of respectful engagement.