Shreyas Iyer’s Sister Blasts Online Abuse Over Pbks Narrow Playoff Miss

Shreyas Iyer’s sister, Shresta Iyer, has responded to the online abuse after heavy trolling following Punjab King’s exit from the IPL 2026. The backlash started when an old “banter” reel involving Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders resurfaced on social media after the PBKS missed the playoffs narrowly by just 1 point. Shrestha later clarified that the video which showed her celebrating after the rain had washed out Punjab’s match against Kolkata and gave them 1 point earlier this season, was only meant for a light-hearted fun-banter and not an attack on anyone. In an Instagram video, she explained, “the video that I had created earlier, you guys exaggerated it to extremes, when the motive of the reel was just fun.” She further added, “I was not trolling anyone, I had no bad intentions behind the banter.

I was not spreading hate against anyone. I respect every cricketer because my brother is a cricketer.”Shresta also revealed that the trolling became much more serious than just social media comments. She said that people started calling & contacting people related to her and her workplace, troubling her personally and professionally. “I pity you guys,” she said. “you have been calling my workplace, abusing me, my colleagues, my students and my family. Harassing them and calling at random times.” Shresta made it clear that criticizing her is one thing but dragging her family, colleagues and students into the mess is not acceptable.

She further added, “if you want to hate me, please continue doing that, but stop harassing people connected to me.” “I will celebrate my brother, he wins or loses, I will always celebrate him.” Shresta defended her support for her brother. This incident has once again sparked a debate on how toxic the fan culture can be in Indian cricket. Fans on social media often turn aggressive and abusive after losses and start targeting the family and friends of the players.This article is written by Divya Sharma, a student of Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, interning with Deccan Chronicle.