With the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) just days away, social media has been flooded with a viral image of Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shreyas Iyer sporting a completely clean-shaven, almost bald look. The viral photo, which shows the 31-year-old in the new PBKS jersey without his trademark groomed stubble and signature hairstyle, has left fans in disbelief. However, a closer look at the skipper’s recent public appearances confirms that the makeover is nothing more than a digital fabrication.  Ricky Ponting Participates in Puja Ahead of IPL 2026 Along With Punjab Kings Players.

Fake Shreyas Iyer Viral Photo Shared by User

User Shares Fake Shreyas Iyer Look Photo

Another User Shares Fake Shreyas Iyer 

Fact Check: Shreyas Iyer’s Clean Shave Look for IPL 2026?

A fact check confirms that the image is entirely fake. The photo is an edited version of an older promotional shoot, likely altered using AI-based face-swapping or filtering tools. Evidence from Shreyas Iyer’s official social media channels shows him in his usual style as recently as yesterday.

Furthermore, Iyer was seen in Mumbai on 25 March, attending the official IPL 2026 captains' meeting. Photographs from the event show him interacting with other team leaders, including Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya, sporting his customary well-groomed beard and stylishly cut hair. This confirms that the PBKS leader has not undergone any drastic aesthetic changes ahead of the season opener. Captains Assemble! All Ten Skippers Catch Up in Mumbai Ahead of IPL 2026.

Punjab Kings Share Shreyas Iyer's Original Look

While his look remains unchanged, Iyer’s physical condition has been a major talking point. He recently revealed that he lost seven kilograms following a serious spleen injury sustained during the 2025 tour of Australia. After a rigorous two-month rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, he has returned to full fitness.

Now leading Punjab Kings for a second consecutive season, Iyer is focused on finishing the job he started in 2025, where he guided the team to the final before a narrow defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. With head coach Ricky Ponting now at the helm, the PBKS camp appears settled and ready for their first match against Gujarat Titans on 31 March

Fact check

Shreyas Iyer’s Clean Shave Look for IPL 2026? Here’s the Fact Check
Claim :

Shreyas Iyer’s Clean Shave Look for IPL 2026?

Conclusion :

No, this is a fake look created via AI.

Full of Trash
Clean

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 25, 2026 06:32 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).