RCB Star Doubtful For IPL 2025 Final Against PBKS, Team Tight-Lipped: Report
Phil Salt may miss the Indian Premier League final for RCB against PBKS due to the birth of his child, as per a report.
Phil Salt may not be available for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) final against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, June 3.
Salt's participation is in doubt due to the imminent birth of his child, as the Englishman's absence from RCB's final training session has fuelled speculation about his availability for the summit clash.
As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, Salt may not be present in Ahmedabad for the IPL 2025 final against PBKS, with the star wicket-keeper and opening batter opting to be with his partner for the birth of their first child.
RCB coach Andy Flower and captain Rajat Patidar, though, remained tight-lipped on the matter, arguably choosing to keep the situation private before the crucial encounter. Flower is known for his strategic mind games, often including even injured players in warm-up exercises to maintain an element of surprise.
However, Salt was not alone in missing the practice session; several other RCB players were also absent, as per the report. While the exact situation remains unclear, it is possible that Salt has already departed for home.
Salt has played a vital role for RCB this season, amassing 387 runs in 12 matches at a strike rate of 175.90 and an average of 35.18. His absence would undoubtedly be a significant blow to RCB's title aspirations.
With Jacob Bethell already unavailable due to international commitments, RCB's opening combination faces further disruption if Salt is unable to play. Should Salt be unavailable, Tim Siefert, signed as a replacement player, and Mayank Agarwal emerge as the frontrunners to partner Virat Kohli at the top of the order.
A current concern for RCB is the availability of powerful hitter Tim David, who has been absent from their last two matches due to a hamstring injury.
'Till now, I have no idea about Tim David. Doctors are there and we will get to know this evening," RCB skipper Rajat Patidar said in the pre-match press conference.
Tim David's fitness remains uncertain, with his presence being vital, particularly given his key role alongside Romario Shepherd in late-innings batting.
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