RCB to replace Phil Salt? [Source: AP Photos]
Phil Salt has been going through a rough patch in the ongoing T20I series against India. A lot was expected of the English opener, but he has been a disappointing batter to say the least. In the first three T20Is, Salt has accumulated scores of 0, 4, and 5 and is yet to cross the double digit as England and even his IPL franchise RCB are sweating on his form.
The batter was bought by RCB for a whopping 11.50 crore and was touted to open alongside franchise legend, Virat Kohli. However, he has flopped in the first three matches and here are 3 potential replacements RCB have to replace him as opener in the team.
3) Devdutt Padikkal
Apart from Salt, RCB also purchased the services of Devdutt Padikkal for the upcoming season. Padikkal, previously played for RCB during the 2020 and 2021 season and interestingly played at the opening spot. He is used to batting at the top and can compliment Kohli as the team will have a left-right combination.
2) Rajat Patidar
One of the most consistent players for RCB over the last few seasons, Rajat Patidar has flourished in his role at number 3 and 4, but with Salt not delivering the goods, the franchise could decide to try out an all-Indian opening combination and it will also allow Kohli to take some time in the middle as Patidar can be the aggressor.
1) Jacob Bethell
The RCB can sprung a surprise by promoting Englishman Jacob Bethell at the top. Bethell generally plays at 3, and 4, but IPL is all about trying out new things. Opposition teams don't have much idea about Bethell and the RCB squad could exploit it by promoting him at the top.