RCB vs PBKS IPL Final: Bengaluru May Miss Phil Salt and Tim David in Crucial Clash

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) may face a major setback in the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, as they could be without two of their most important overseas players — Phil Salt and Tim David — when they take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Tuesday, June 3.

RCB, who have enjoyed a sensational turnaround this season, secured their place in the IPL final after defeating PBKS in a dominant performance in Qualifier 1. However, the potential absence of Salt and David has cast a shadow over their final preparations.

According to a report by ESPNcricinfo on the morning of the final, English opener Phil Salt had briefly returned to England to be present for the birth of his child. While Salt made the effort to fly back in time for the final, there is uncertainty about his availability, primarily due to fatigue and jet lag from the long journey. RCB has kept the situation under wraps, with no official confirmation on Salt’s status as of match day.

Salt has been a crucial part of RCB’s batting lineup throughout the season. His explosive starts at the top have provided much-needed momentum in the powerplay, often laying the foundation for strong totals or chases. If he is unavailable, it would significantly disrupt the team’s balance.

Adding to RCB’s concerns, middle-order power-hitter Tim David is also likely to miss the final. David suffered a hamstring injury while fielding during a group-stage match against SunRisers Hyderabad. The injury occurred in the final over of the first innings, and he has not taken the field since — including missing the all-important Qualifier 1 against Punjab.

David’s role as a finisher has been pivotal in RCB’s campaign, offering firepower in the death overs. Without him, the team may need to reshuffle its lower order. In David’s absence, RCB is expected to rely on West Indies all-rounder Romario Shepherd, who impressed earlier in the tournament with a match-winning knock against Chennai Super Kings.

Should Salt also miss out, New Zealand’s Tim Seifert could step in to open alongside Virat Kohli. While Seifert brings international experience, the duo of Salt and Kohli had developed strong chemistry at the top of the order, which might be difficult to replicate under pressure.

With the IPL title on the line, RCB will need to adapt quickly if both stars are indeed ruled out. Their absence could tilt the balance in favour of Punjab Kings, who will be looking to capitalize on any disruption in Bengaluru’s setup.

IT.