Punjab Kings (PBKS) skipper Shreyas Iyer’s sister Shresta Iyer released a two-part video addressing the online harassment she recently faced. The abuse started after Punjab Kings were eliminated from the IPL 2026 playoff race, once again raising concerns about toxic fan culture in Indian cricket.
Rajasthan Royals (RR) defeated Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium on the final day of the league stage, which knocked Punjab Kings out of playoff contention. Earlier, Punjab Kings had defeated Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their final league match, where Shreyas Iyer scored his maiden century in the IPL.
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The Motive of the Reel Was Just Fun Banter – Shreyas Iyer’s Sister Responds to Online Abuse
The backlash started after an old video of Shreyas Iyer‘s sister Shresta Iyer went viral on social media. In the clip, she joked about gifting a point to Kolkata Knight Riders after a washed-out match. Responding to the criticism, she clarified that the reel was only meant as light-hearted banter and was never intended to target or insult anyone.
“The video that I had created earlier, you guys exaggerated it to extremes, when the motive of the reel was just a fun banter. I wasn’t trolling anyone, I had no bad intentions behind the banter. I wasn’t spreading hate against anyone. I respect every cricketer because my brother is a cricketer.”
Abusing Me, My Colleagues, My Students and My Family – Shreyas Iyer’ sister on Online Harassment
Shresta Iyer revealed the extent of the online abuse she faced during the IPL 2026 season. She said that the trolling went beyond social media and affected her workplace, family members, and people connected to her personally.
“I pity you guys. You have been calling my workplace, abusing me, my colleagues, my students and my family. Harassing them and calling at random times.”
Shresta asked people not to involve her family and professional circle in online abuse. She added that she will continue supporting her brother Shreyas Iyer regardless of match results.
“If you want to hate me, please continue doing that, but stop harassing people affiliated with me. I am not here to tell what is right or wrong. I will celebrate my brother — whether he wins or loses, I will always celebrate him.”
Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders Endure Disappointing IPL 2026 Campaigns
Punjab Kings finished fifth on the points table and missed a playoff spot by just one point despite having a better net run rate. The franchise won six of their first seven matches before suffering a six-match losing streak that ended their strong campaign.
Kolkata Knight Riders also finished in the bottom half of the table. They lost five of their first six matches before recovering with six wins in seven games. However, a final defeat against Delhi Capitals (DC) pushed them down to seventh place.
Online abuse directed at players and their families continues to remain a serious concern in cricket. Similar situations recently involved Virat Kohli and Travis Head after their heated on-field exchange, showing how toxic online reactions have become after major IPL matches.
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