Sana Makbul Reveals Crush on Shreyas Iyer: Date Proposal and IPL 2026 Stakes

A Surprising Connection: Sana Makbul and Shreyas Iyer

In a crossover between the worlds of reality television and professional cricket, Bigg Boss OTT 3 winner and actress Sana Makbul has publicly expressed her admiration for Indian cricketer and Punjab Kings skipper, Shreyas Iyer. During a candid conversation with media outlet Filmygyan, Makbul was prompted to name a cricketer who caught her eye. She did not hesitate to identify Iyer as the individual who has piqued her interest.

Makbul openly admitted to having a crush on the stylish batter, citing his impressive presence on the field as a major factor. Specifically, she pointed to his athleticism and a particular catch he took recently as moments that left her mesmerized. While she noted with a touch of humility that a date might remain a dream, her admiration for the cricketer is clear. She stated, ‘Shreyas Iyer. Lately, that catch he took—I love cricketers. I would love to go out on a date with Shreyas Iyer if he asks me. I feel he is somebody I like.’

Shreyas Iyer’s High-Stakes IPL 2026 Campaign

While interest in his personal life grows, Shreyas Iyer remains firmly focused on his professional duties. As the captain of the Punjab Kings in the ongoing IPL 2026, Iyer finds himself at a pivotal crossroads. Following a season that saw the team emerge as an early front-runner, Punjab Kings are now fighting to stay relevant in the playoff race.

The team is currently in a do-or-die situation as they head into their final group stage match against the Lucknow Super Giants, scheduled for May 23. Currently holding the 5th spot on the 10-team points table with 13 points from 13 matches, the margin for error is non-existent. Earlier in the tournament, Punjab Kings were the talk of the town as the only undefeated side, but a mid-season slump has forced them into this precarious position.

Elimination would be a bitter pill for the franchise, especially after their impressive performance as runners-up in the 2025 campaign. The upcoming match against Lucknow is, therefore, a defining moment for both Iyer’s leadership and the team’s future in the tournament.

Individual Performance and Future International Duties

Despite the team’s collective struggles, Shreyas Iyer’s individual form has remained consistent. In his 12 innings this season, the right-handed batsman has accumulated 397 runs at a commendable average of 44.11. With a strike rate of 162.70 and five half-centuries to his name, Iyer has been the backbone of the Punjab middle order. His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a high scoring rate continues to make him a vital asset for any side he represents.

Looking beyond the IPL, Iyer’s career trajectory remains positive. Following the conclusion of the 2026 season, the international cricket calendar beckons. The Indian national team is set to prepare for an upcoming tour against Afghanistan, which will feature a one-off Test match and a three-match ODI series. Notably, Iyer has been named the vice-captain for the ODI series, which is slated to begin on June 14 in Dharamsala. This leadership role highlights the selectors’ continued faith in his tactical acumen and batting prowess.

As the cricket fraternity waits to see if Punjab Kings can secure their playoff spot on May 23, the focus remains on whether Shreyas Iyer can replicate his personal success in a high-pressure team environment. Regardless of the outcome of the IPL season, his transition to the national squad for the Afghanistan series remains a significant event for Indian cricket fans to look forward to.