Will Phil Salt Play Today’s RCB vs PBKS Final IPL 2025 Match?

Sakshi Sharma

Phil Salt in IPL 2025 (Source:@DrYadav5197,x.com)Phil Salt in IPL 2025 (Source:@DrYadav5197,x.com)

As Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) prepare to take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the high-stakes IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, a cloud of uncertainty hangs over the availability of one of their most impactful players this season Phil Salt.

The English wicketkeeper-batter has been one of the most crucial players for the franchise. He is reportedly doubtful for the final, with strong indications that he may have left the team camp to be with his partner for the birth of their first child.

Salt Missing From Training Sparks Speculation

Phil Salt was absent from RCB’s final training session on Monday, that triggered widespread speculation over his participation in the final. According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the Englishman might not even be in Ahmedabad, with sources suggesting that he has already flown home to be with his family.

RCB head coach Andy Flower and captain Rajat Patidar have chosen to remain silent on Salt’s availability possibly for strategic reasons. 

Flower has previously involved injured players in pre-match warm-ups to keep the opposition second-guessing. However, Salt’s complete absence from training and media visibility has added weight to the reports of his departure.

Phil Salt’s Impact In IPL 2025

Phil Salt’s contributions to RCB this season have been nothing short of stellar. In 12 matches, he has amassed 387 runs at a strike rate of 175.90 and an average of 35.18. His explosive starts at the top along with Virat Kohli have often laid the foundation for RCB’s big totals and successful chases.

Who Could Replace Phil Salt?

If Salt is officially ruled out, RCB can bring in Tim Seifert as his replacement. The New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter, was signed earlier in the tournament as a replacement and could slot into the XI.  

Adding to the drama, RCB are already sweating over the fitness of another overseas player Tim David, who is nursing a hamstring injury. With two critical players in doubt, RCB’s preparation for their first IPL final since 2016 appears increasingly complicated.