In a surprising turn of events ahead of the much-anticipated IPL 2025 final, scheduled for tonight, 3 June at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, reports were circulating that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) might be without their star opener Phil Salt. His absence from RCB’s final practice session has sparked speculation about his availability.
According to a report quoted by ESPNcricinfo, “Salt was not at the ground 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.”
The report further added that Salt and his partner are expecting a child soon. “This is a happy time for Salt; he and his partner are expecting a child soon. RCB’s head coach, Andy Flower, doesn’t like to reveal possible player absences to the opposition before the match. He’s even been known to make injured players warm up until minutes before the game just to keep the opposition guessing.”
But as per the recent reports by ESPNcricinfo, he has returned to Ahmedabad early morning after going back home for the birth of his child.
Salt’s Red-Hot Form Has Been Key to RCB’s 2025 Journey
Phil Salt has been one of RCB’s best performers this season. The aggressive right-hander scored 387 runs in 12 matches at a superb strike rate of 175.90, including four half-centuries. His attacking starts at the top have played a big role in RCB’s path to the final.
Who Could Open with Virat Kohli if Salt Doesn’t Play?
If Phil Salt somehow does not play the final, RCB will likely hand a franchise debut to New Zealand batter Tim Seifert. Known for his explosive power-hitting at the top of the order, Seifert could step in as an opening partner for Virat Kohli in this high-stakes final.
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