Shreyas Iyer's Sister Removes Viral Social Media Clip Following Threat Messages
Shresta Iyer, the sister of Punjab Kings skipper and India ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, has deleted a viral social media video after receiving threatening messages online. She explained that what was intended as "light-hearted banter" was widely misinterpreted by many viewers.
Controversy Erupts After Rain-Affected IPL Match
The controversy began after Punjab Kings' IPL 2026 encounter against Kolkata Knight Riders was abandoned due to persistent rain at Eden Gardens. Following the washed-out game, Shresta posted a clip on Instagram where she humorously suggested her brother's team had "gifted" a point to KKR.
In the now-deleted video, she said in Punjabi: "Saade Punjabiyan da dil vadda hunda ae. Lo, ditta ek point (We Punjabis have a big heart. So, we gave you a point)." The video quickly gained significant traction across social media platforms, drawing mixed reactions from cricket fans and followers.
'Upsetting to Receive Threat Messages'
On Thursday, Shresta announced she had taken down the controversial video, citing the nature of responses she received from viewers.
"I've decided to take down my recent video as it seems it was misunderstood by some," she wrote on Instagram. "It was meant to be light-hearted banter, but I respect that not everyone saw it that way. However, it's been quite upsetting to receive not just negativity, but also a few threat messages over it."
She clarified that her decision to remove the content was not an admission of wrongdoing. "I'm not removing the video because I believe I did something wrong, but because I respect my brother and his team, and I don't want this space to turn into one filled with negativity," she added, urging people to be "kinder and more understanding" in their online interactions.
'No Hate, Just Support' for Brother
Earlier, Shresta had already addressed the growing backlash against her video, insisting her comment was never aimed at Kolkata Knight Riders or their supporters.
"Guys, I don't understand why the hatred is being spread. It's just a game," she said. "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."
She further explained her perspective: "I understand aggression. I wasn't trolling anybody. It was my way of celebration... There were no personal attacks, just chill. Peace out, guys."
Match Details and Aftermath
The rain-affected match at Kolkata's iconic Eden Gardens stadium was called off after just 3.4 overs of play, with both teams sharing a point in the standings. The incident highlights the intense emotions surrounding IPL matches and the sometimes toxic nature of online fan interactions.
This episode serves as a reminder of how quickly social media content can escalate beyond intended humor, particularly in the high-stakes environment of professional sports where team loyalties run deep and emotions frequently overflow beyond the boundary ropes.
