Shreyas Iyer, captain of Punjab Kings, has opened up about the growing popularity of his nickname “Sarpanch Saab,” which has struck a chord with fans across Punjab.
Speaking at the IPL 2026 jersey launch event in Mohali, Iyer said he is still unsure about how the title originated but believes it may have first been used informally within the team environment before catching on among supporters.
The term “Sarpanch,” commonly used in North India to describe a village head or community leader, has come to symbolise Iyer’s composed leadership style and his approachable personality. Fans have adopted the nickname as a mark of admiration for the cricketer’s on-field presence and off-field connect.
Iyer shared that during his visits to Chandigarh and other parts of Punjab, he is often greeted with chants of “Sarpanch Saab,” with many fans stopping him for photos and interactions. He described the response as overwhelming and said it reflects a strong bond with the local fanbase.
The PBKS skipper added that such gestures from supporters motivate him to perform better and strengthen his connection with the team’s followers. As the upcoming IPL season approaches, the nickname continues to grow in popularity, becoming an integral part of Iyer’s image in the region.
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