Just hours before the IPL 2025 final against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Ahmedabad, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faced a major blow as their star English opener, Phil Salt, ius reportedly in serious doubt for the title clash.
According to ESPNCricinfo report, Salt was not at the ground (Narendra Modi Stadium) when RCB trained on the eve of the final, but that isn't unusual. Quite a few players choose to prepare by themselves instead of having one more net. If Salt is not in Ahmedabad and has dashed home to be with his family, RCB won't let it be known until match day. Not with a player so important.
Although it’s not unusual for some players to skip the last net session to prepare on their own, Salt’s absence has sparked rumors that he might be back home with his family. RCB, however, is likely to keep his status under wraps until match day, given how vital he has been to their success.
Phil Salt has been one of RCB’s standout performers this season, amassing 387 runs in 12 matches at a blistering strike rate of 175.90 and an average above 35. His explosive batting has been key to RCB’s flying start, making him a crucial part of their lineup heading into the final.
Who will replace Phil Salt in the playing XI?
With Salt’s availability now uncertain and Jacob Bethell already away on international duty, RCB could face a difficult decision in their opening combination. If Salt misses out, the team might have to rely on Tim Seifert, who was brought in as a backup, or call upon experienced Indian batter Mayank Agarwal to fill the gap in the high-stakes IPL final.
RCB will be playing in their fourth IPL final, it's a big return for Punjab Kings, who are making their first appearance in the final since 2014. Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer is chasing history. If he wins tonight, he has the chance to write history by becoming the first captain to win IPL titles with two different teams. He previously won with Kolkata Knight Riders last year.
