Sarpanch Saab in the Spotlight: Preity Zinta’s Viral Tribute to Shreyas Iyer

Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta has publicly admired captain Shreyas Iyer, fondly addressing him as "Sarpanch Saab" in an emotional social media post that caught the attention of fans and the cricket community. Zinta is applauding Iyer as he continues to impress on and off the pitch, steering Punjab Kings through a competitive IPL 2025 campaign.

 

During a recent exchange on X (formerly Twitter), Zinta replied to a fan's request to "say something about our Sarpanch Saab," the popular nickname for Iyer among fans. Zinta responded warmly and with humor:

 

We are really thrilled to have Shreyas as the captain of Punjab Kings. He truly is Sarpanch Saab! The team adores him, the crowd loves him, the coach adores him… what else do I need? Still waiting to witness him dance though.

 

The nickname "Sarpanch Saab" indicates Iyer's assertive but humble leadership as a symbol of the village head who rules with might and humility. Zinta's post soon went viral, pointing out the good vibes and excellent chemistry in the Punjab Kings dressing room under the captaincy of Iyer.

 

Zinta has never ceased to commend Iyer's leadership skills and his personality. During previous interactions, she called him "very down to earth," "an amazing captain," and "the sweetest and most soft-spoken guy." She disclosed that Iyer was the franchise's first and only preference for the captaincy during the IPL 2025 mega auction, with the whole auction plan being around acquiring him.

 

Iyer has performed as a tactician and as a batsman as well, having scored 405 runs in 11 innings with a strike rate of 180.80 and four half-centuries this season. Punjab Kings, led by him, have risen to the third position on the points table with seven wins from 11 games and are solid playoff contenders.

 

Zinta's public support, including her go-viral post-match hug for Iyer and her constant interaction with fans, still pumps up the team and its fans. She attributes the chemistry between Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting as an important contributing factor to the team's better performance, highlighting leadership and positive vibes.

 

As the IPL 2025 season resumes on May 17, everyone will be looking to "Sarpanch Saab" Shreyas Iyer and the Punjab Kings as they look to land their first-ever IPL title in Zinta's fiery leadership.

 

Sources: News18, Free Press Journal, Hindustan Times, Cricket One, Sportskeeda, Rediff