In a scathing social media post that has grabbed the attention of IPL fans, Iceland Cricket’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle has brutally trolled underperforming players from the ongoing Indian Premier League 2025 season. Among those named in their tongue-in-cheek “Frauds and Scammers” XI were Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer — both of whom commanded massive bids in the last IPL auction but have failed to deliver on the field.

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Pant, bought for a record-breaking ₹27 crore by Lucknow Super Giants, has had a dismal campaign so far. In 11 matches, the wicketkeeper-batsman has managed to score just 128 runs, averaging a mere 13, and striking below 100. Despite being appointed captain of the side, Pant has failed to inspire his team with the bat or leadership.

Similarly, defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders spent ₹23.75 crore to bring back Venkatesh Iyer. However, the left-hander’s performances have left much to be desired. Iyer has scored only 142 runs from 11 matches at a strike rate of 139.22, including just one fifty.

Known for its witty and brutally honest takes, Iceland Cricket’s post read: “On a rain day in Reykjavík, we give you our IPL 2025 frauds and scammers team: R Tripathi, R Ravindra, I Kishan, R Pant (c & wk), V Iyer, G Maxwell, L Livingstone, D Hooda, R Ashwin, M Pathirana, M Shami; No impact player: M Kumar.”

Pant was appointed captain and wicketkeeper of this sarcastic XI, reflecting widespread disappointment in his season’s showing. The team also included five players from Chennai Super Kings, two from Sunrisers Hyderabad, and one each from other franchises including Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

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While meant as satire, the post has sparked debates across cricketing circles, highlighting how big-money signings don’t always guarantee performance in the high-pressure environment of the IPL.