Shreyas Iyer’s profile in the Indian Premier League has risen sharply since he joined Punjab Kings, with his influence extending far beyond the numbers. The franchise captain guided PBKS to the IPL final last year, only to fall short against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Now, as Punjab begin IPL 2026 still unbeaten, Iyer’s form and leadership are once again placing the spotlight on his run with the team—alongside a fan-favourite nickname that has stuck with him since his arrival.
Iyer’s “Sarpanch” tag and what it means
One of the most talked-about aspects of Iyer’s Punjab Kings stint is the “Sarpanch” label that has followed him since he became part of the setup. Speaking on JioStar’s “Believe,” the PBKS skipper explained that he initially had no idea what the term referred to or why it was being used for him.
He said that at the beginning of his journey with Punjab Kings, he was unaware of how the nickname came about. He later asked teammates, who helped him understand the context behind “Sarpanch.” In Iyer’s telling, it is used to mean the head of a family, a group, or even a district—giving him clarity and helping the meaning “click” as his role with the franchise grew.
Punjab Kings’ unbeaten start and points table position
Punjab Kings are the only side yet to lose in IPL 2026. The team currently sit at the top of the points table with nine points from five matches. Their campaign also included a washout against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), with the match abandoned and one point awarded to each side.
That result was significant, because it remains the only point KKR have managed this season. The Kolkata franchise are at the bottom of the standings, having suffered five defeats in six matches.
Iyer’s IPL 2026 output and Punjab’s batting punch
Iyer has been among the most productive batters in PBKS’ lineup in IPL 2026. Across four innings, he has scored 203 runs at an average of 67.67, striking at 187.96. His power-hitting has also stood out, with 14 sixes and 14 fours so far this season.
- Runs: 203
- Innings: 4
- Batting average: 67.67
- Strike rate: 187.96
- Sixes: 14
- Fours: 14
Another key contributor for Punjab Kings has been Prabhsimran Singh, an uncapped batter who has hit form at the right time. So far this season, Prabhsimran has amassed 211 runs. Opening the batting for PBKS, he has maintained an average above 70 and a strike rate of 172, underlining his ability to both anchor and accelerate.
- Runs: 211
- Role: Opening batter for PBKS
- Batting average: Over 70
- Strike rate: 172
- Fours: 22
- Sixes: 11
With Iyer carrying the captaincy momentum and Prabhsimran adding explosive starts, PBKS are building the kind of tournament rhythm that can take them back to the final—this time with the “Sarpanch” moniker only adding to the story around their title chase.
