- By Swati Singh
- Tue, 04 Aug 2026 06:26 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Former Australian cricketer Brett Lee has finally addressed the long-standing rumours about dating Preity Zinta during their IPL association with Punjab Kings.
Speaking to Bombay Times, Brett firmly denied the speculation. He said there was never any truth to the dating rumours.
While acknowledging that his name was often linked to Bollywood actresses, Brett clarified that he and Preity only shared a good friendship and were never romantically involved.
Putting the rumours to rest, Brett said, "Here’s your scoop – I never dated a Bollywood actress."
He said, "Preity Zinta and I were, and still are, great friends. She was the boss of the Punjab team back then. She’s an incredibly smart woman, and I have a lot of respect for her. Stories like that never bothered me because I always knew the truth. People can speculate all they want, but I never let it affect me."
At the time, Preity had also dismissed the rumours. She wrote on X, "I think being romantically linked to Brett every year is outdated and stale news now! So sorry to say folks NO NEWS here! FRIENDS yeesss."
The rumours began between 2008 and 2011, when Brett Lee played for Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) in the IPL. Preity Zinta was one of the franchise's co-owners, and the two were often seen together during matches and events.
Speculation intensified after Brett and Preity were spotted together at a Mumbai restaurant. Their public appearances fuelled reports that they were secretly dating.