IPL 2025: ‘Big performer not big name’ – Preity Zinta breaks silence on her alleged remark for Rishabh Pant
Punjab Kings co-owner and Bollywood actress Preity Zinta recently took to social media to respond to a viral quote that attributed controversial remarks to her regarding Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 superstar player Rishabh Pant.
The quote, which circulated widely on X (formerly Twitter), claimed Zinta made a bold statement that PBKS chose Shreyas Iyer because he was a “big performer” and not just a “big name” like Pant. It falsely implied that Zinta said, “We had both Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer—options we could have taken in the team. But we wanted a big performer, not a big name…so we took Shreyas Iyer in the team,” Responding swiftly to the claim, Zinta dismissed it in clear terms, writing in bold letters on her official X handle: “I’m so sorry but this is FAKE NEWS!”
Her statement not only clarified the situation but also emphasized her stand against misinformation being spread in her name, especially during the high-stakes IPL season. Both Pant and Shreyas Iyer were among the hottest picks in the IPL 2025 auction. While Pant was signed by Lucknow Super Giants for a record-breaking INR 27 crore after being released by Delhi Capitals, Shreyas Iyer found a new home in PBKS for INR 26.75 crore, making them two of the most expensive players this season.
I’m so sorry but this is FAKE NEWS !
— Preity G Zinta (@realpreityzinta) April 19, 2025
Also READ: IPL 2025: RCB fans label Chinnaswamy as ‘most cursed place’ after defeat against Punjab Kings
Performance in the IPL 2025: Shreyas Iyer shines, Rishabh Pant struggles
As the tournament progressed, Iyer’s on-field contributions have played a significant role in Punjab Kings’ strong start to the season. Under his leadership, PBKS currently sit second in the IPL 2025 points table. The right-handed batter has been consistent with the bat, amassing 257 runs so far and providing much-needed stability in the top order. By contrast, Pant’s form has come under heavy scrutiny. Despite being bought for a higher price, the wicketkeeper-batter has only delivered one notable innings, a 63 off 49 balls against Chennai Super Kings. His other outings have been marked by inconsistency, including two ducks, raising questions about his value proposition given the hefty price tag.
Meanwhile, PBKS’s recent performance has been impressive, most notably their latest win against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. In a shortened 14-over contest, PBKS bowlers dominated early, restricting RCB to just 95/9. Despite a slight wobble in the chase at 53/4, Nehal Wadhera and Marcus Stoinis kept their cool and ensured Punjab crossed the finish line. This victory helped PBKS maintain their position near the top of the table and signaled their intent as serious playoff contenders. They are now set to face RCB again, this time at their home ground in Mullanpur on April 20, where another win could further strengthen their position.
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