England’s dashing cricketer Phil Salt has been ruled out of the T20 series against the West Indies, and the reason is heartwarming.
Actually, the 28-year-old star batsman has taken paternity leave for the birth of his first child. Yes, Salt is now going to leave the cricket field and take training to change diapers.
Last week was no less than a rollercoaster for Salt. After Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) Qualifier 1 win against Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh, he rushed to the UK to spend special moments of the birth of the child with his partner.
Soon after the birth of his son, he made a quick comeback and reached Ahmedabad on Tuesday morning. The same night he scored 16 runs for RCB in the IPL 2025 final and took a brilliant catch, helping RCB win the IPL trophy for the first time.
After RCB’s victory, Salt said smilingly, “My son is my lucky charm!”
His hard work was praised by RCB’s cricket director Mo Bobat, and Virat Kohli made a funny comment on Instagram,
“Now the real game begins, it’s time to change diapers!”
Salt scored 403 runs in 13 matches in IPL 2025, including 4 half-centuries. His strike rate was 175.98, meaning the bowlers were beaten a lot.
But now Salt has asked the England Cricket Board (ECB) for a break for the T20 series against the West Indies.
The ECB also respected his decision and said, “Salt will now spend time with his family.”
Jamie Smith has been included in the T20 team in his place, who has performed brilliantly in the ODI series.
Tom Banton and Will Jacks can also get a chance in the top order.
The series will start in Durham from Friday, then matches will be held in Bristol and Southampton. Salt may not be seen on the field, but fans are praising his lovely decision.
