As the Royal Challengers Bengaluru face the Punjab Kings hurdle in the bid to lift their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title, the preparations for the big final seem to have hit a significant hurdle. As per a report, RCB’s talismanic opening batter Phil Salt is a doubt for the title clash against the Punjab franchise, as he is expecting the birth of his child. Salt couldn’t be spotted in RCB’s training session on the eve of the finale, triggering speculations over his availability for the summit clash.

As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, Salt might not even be in Ahmedabad for the match against PBKS, with plans being to accompany his partner for the birth of their first child. RCB coach Andy Flower and captain Rajat Patidar, however, didn’t utter a single word on the player’s situation, understandably wanting to keep the matter secret ahead of the all-important match.

In fact, Flower has even developed a reputation for being a strategic deceiver, having made even his injured players do warm-up drills before the start of the match, in order to keep the opposition guessing.

PHIL SALT MIGHT MISS FINAL

– Phil Salt was not present in RCB’s last practice session of #IPL2025 [ESPNCricinfo] pic.twitter.com/DN0xYdnkxt

— RCBIANS OFFICIAL (@RcbianOfficial) June 2, 2025

However, it also has to be noted that Salt wasn’t the only player to miss the practice session, as a few other RCB stars also decided to do the same. At present, the situation is unclear, but a possibility remains that the wicket-keeper batter has already flown home.

Who Will Win IPL 2025 final? Vote Here

Salt has struck 387 runs for RCB this season in 12 matches, at a strike-rate of 175.90 and an average of 35.18. The stats alone suggest how important the Englishman is for RCB’s plans in the final. With Jacob Bethell already back home for international duty, the Bengaluru side are expected to face some problems in sorting out the opening issue if Salt is indeed not available.

Tim Siefert, signed as a replacement player, and Mayank Agarwal remain the best-suited options for the opening slot, alongside Virat Kohli if Salt isn’t available.