Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer has become one of the most talked-about names in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and beyond — not just for his batting but also for his leadership, personality, and controversies. From being nicknamed “Sarpanch” to being dropped by KKR, here’s a full look at his journey.
Who is Shreyas Iyer?
Shreyas Iyer is a prominent Indian cricketer known for his stylish batting and calm leadership. He was born on December 6, 1994, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. As of 2025, he is 30 years old. Shreyas hails from a Tamilian family and has one sibling — a younger sister, making him the elder of the two. He grew up in the vibrant locality of Worli in Mumbai and studied at Don Bosco High School, followed by R.A. Podar College. With a charming personality and sharp features, Shreyas Iyer has black hair and a well-groomed style that complements his off-field public appearances as much as his on-field flair.
How Shreyas Iyer Got the Nickname ‘Sarpanch’?
The nickname “Sarpanch” was given to Shreyas Iyer during his time in the Indian dressing room, particularly by fellow cricketers who teased him for his rustic fashion sense and dominating leadership style. The term, which refers to the elected head of a village in India, caught on when Shreyas started wearing traditional sunglasses and kurtas while displaying calm, authoritative energy — similar to a real-life village headman.
It soon became an affectionate joke among teammates, and fans picked up on it through social media and behind-the-scenes videos.
How Much Was Shreyas Iyer Sold for in the IPL?
In the 2022 IPL Mega Auction, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bought Shreyas Iyer for ₹12.25 crore, making him one of the most expensive buys of that season. He was immediately announced as the captain of KKR, taking over leadership from Eoin Morgan.
Iyer had previously played for Delhi Capitals, where he was retained earlier and even led the team to the final in 2020.
How Many Centuries Has Shreyas Iyer Scored in the IPL?
As of the 2025 IPL season, Shreyas Iyer has not scored a century in the IPL. However, he has consistently scored fifties and has a healthy strike rate. Known for his stylish strokeplay and ability to anchor the innings, Iyer has been a vital middle-order presence for every franchise he has played for.
Shreyas Iyer Net Worth
Shreyas Iyer’s estimated net worth in 2025 is around ₹75–80 crore ($9–10 million USD). His income comes from:
- IPL contracts (KKR, Delhi Capitals)
- Central contract with the BCCI
- Brand endorsements (BoAt, CEAT, Gillette, etc.)
- Real estate and personal investments
He owns a luxurious flat in Mumbai and several high-end cars, including an Audi and Mercedes-Benz.
Why Was Shreyas Iyer Not Retained by KKR?
Despite leading KKR in 2022 and being a big-money buy, Shreyas Iyer was not retained by Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of the 2025 IPL auction. The decision raised eyebrows but was influenced by several key factors:
- Injury Concerns – Iyer missed major parts of the 2023 season due to a recurring back injury.
- Form Fluctuations – His inconsistent form in the latter half of the 2024 season made the franchise consider younger options.
- Team Combination – KKR may have opted for a new leadership core, with an eye on rebuilding.
- Salary Cap Strategy – Letting go of a ₹12.25 crore player gave KKR more flexibility at the auction table.
That said, Iyer remains a hot property and could be picked up again at a high price by another franchise.
Conclusion
Shreyas Iyer’s cricket journey is far from over. Whether it’s being dubbed “Sarpanch,” leading IPL teams, or being in the headlines for his high-profile retention decisions, Iyer continues to be a major figure in Indian cricket. Fans now eagerly await where he’ll land next and how he’ll bounce back stronger in the seasons ahead.
