Phil Salt Returns to RCB for IPL 2025 Final Against Punjab Kings

Phil Salt Rejoins RCB Ahead of IPL 2025 Final

As the Royal Challengers Bengaluru prepare for their IPL 2025 final against the Punjab Kings, they received a significant boost with the return of opener Phil Salt. This crucial match is set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, June 3.

Both teams are vying for their first IPL title at the world's largest cricket venue, which accommodates over 100,000 spectators. This year's IPL will see a new champion crowned for the first time since 2022, when the Gujarat Titans won their inaugural title in their debut season under Hardik Pandya's captaincy.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured their spot in the final by defeating Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 held in Mullanpur. Conversely, Punjab Kings rebounded from their earlier loss to RCB by overcoming the Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2, thus earning their place in the championship match. This marks RCB's fourth appearance in an IPL final and their first since 2016, while PBKS is making their second final appearance, the first being in 2014.

Relief for RCB as Phil Salt Returns

With RCB aiming to break their title drought in this fourth final, there were concerns regarding Phil Salt's availability. Reports indicated that the England opener had returned home for the birth of his child.

Initially, Salt was absent from the final practice session at the Narendra Modi Stadium, leading to speculation about his participation. However, the RCB franchise kept the situation under wraps, and the team ultimately expressed relief when Salt rejoined them just in time for the final.

According to ESPN Cricinfo, Salt arrived back in Ahmedabad early on the morning of the final after attending the birth of his first child, which has revitalized the team's spirits.

🚨 PHIL SALT TO PLAY IPL FINAL. 🚨- Salt returned to Ahmedabad early morning after going back home for the birth of his child. (Espncricinfo). pic.twitter.com/zDqi3G7EzE

Despite Salt's return, uncertainty looms over Tim David's participation due to a hamstring injury sustained during a league match against the Sunrisers Hyderabad. David was absent from the playing XI in the Qualifier 1 match against Punjab Kings.

Phil Salt's Stellar Performance in IPL 2025

Phil Salt has been a key player for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, contributing significantly to their journey to the IPL final. Acquired for INR 11.50 crore, he has lived up to his price tag with his explosive batting at the top of the order.

Throughout IPL 2025, Salt has scored 387 runs, including four half-centuries, with an average of 35.18 and an impressive strike rate of 175.40 across 12 matches.

In addition to his individual success, Salt has formed a formidable opening partnership with RCB stalwart Virat Kohli. Together, they have accumulated 547 runs, including six fifties, at an average of 45.58 in 12 matches.

Their consistent performances at the top have provided RCB with a solid foundation, often giving the team the early momentum needed to dominate matches and alleviating pressure on the middle order during crucial encounters.