IPL 2025: RCB get a shot in the arm as a joyous Salt returns after visiting his newborn

Just hours before the IPL 2025 final, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) received a morale boost as star opener Phil Salt rejoined the squad with joyful news. The English cricketer briefly left the RCB camp to be in England for the birth of his first child and returned today with renewed energy.

Also read: Phil Salt returns for IPL 2025 final, boosting RCB’s hopes

Salt’s girlfriend, Abi McLaven, gave birth to their child earlier this week, marking a new chapter in the couple's life. The two have been together since 2020, with McLaven working as a freelance social media marketer. While the baby's name hasn't been revealed, Salt’s fatherhood has clearly lifted spirits in the RCB camp.

Arriving in Ahmedabad this morning, Salt is expected to bring added firepower to the batting line-up as RCB face Punjab Kings in the IPL final. This marks RCB’s first appearance in the title clash in nine years, and fans are hopeful of a historic win.

Salt has been instrumental in RCB’s campaign this season, amassing 387 runs at a blazing strike rate of 175.9. His consistency and aggressive starts at the top have played a key role in the team’s journey to the final.

With Salt back and buoyed by personal joy, RCB look more determined than ever to lift their maiden IPL trophy tonight at the Narendra Modi Stadium.