Tue Jun 03 09:41:10 UTC 2025: **Here’s a summary of the text:**

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) preparations for the IPL 2025 final against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) have been potentially disrupted by the possible absence of their star opener, Phil Salt. Salt missed the team’s training session and might be unavailable due to the impending birth of his child. While RCB’s coach and captain remain tight-lipped, reports suggest Salt might have already left to be with his partner. This absence poses a significant challenge for RCB, as Salt has been a key player this season. The team might have to rely on replacement players like Tim Siefert or Mayank Agarwal to fill the opening slot alongside Virat Kohli.

**And here’s the news article:**

**RCB’s IPL Final Hopes Dented as Phil Salt’s Availability in Doubt**

**Ahmedabad, June 3, 2025** – Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) pursuit of their maiden IPL title may face a significant hurdle as star opener Phil Salt’s participation in the final against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) hangs in the balance.

Reports indicate that Salt was absent from RCB’s training session yesterday and could miss the crucial match due to the expected arrival of his child. While RCB coach Andy Flower and captain Rajat Patidar have remained mum on the situation, sources suggest Salt may have already left to be with his partner.

Salt has been a vital cog in RCB’s batting lineup this season, amassing 387 runs at an impressive strike rate of 175.90. His potential absence leaves a gaping hole at the top of the order.

With Jacob Bethell already unavailable, RCB may have to turn to Tim Siefert, signed as a replacement player, or Mayank Agarwal to partner with Virat Kohli at the top.

The news comes as a blow to RCB fans who were hoping for a full-strength squad to take on PBKS in the highly anticipated final. The team will need to adapt quickly and find a solution to overcome Salt’s possible absence if they are to lift the coveted IPL trophy.

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