Phil Salt is heading home for paternity leave after a brilliant IPL 2025 season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
He was a key player in RCB’s first-ever IPL trophy win after a thrilling final against Punjab Kings.
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Taking Salt’s place in the England squad is wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith. The 23-year-old from Surrey has been in good form.
He was especially good in the last ODI against West Indies, scoring a quick half-century.
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That’s earned him a spot in the T20 squad as England prepares for the three-match series.
“Salt is taking time away on paternity leave following the birth of his child this week. He will now be at home.
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He has been replaced by Surrey batter Jamie Smith,” said the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in a statement on Thursday.
England is on a roll. They whitewashed the ODI series 3-0 and look settled. First T20 is at Riverside Ground in Durham on Friday and all eyes will be on Smith in Salt’s absence.
This is a big opportunity for Jamie Smith to show his T20 skills at international level. With the T20 World Cup just months away, a good showing could put him in the frame for future selections.
Summary:
Phil Salt out due to paternity leave.
Jamie Smith in.
England starts T20 series vs West Indies on Friday in Durham.
Smith was good in the last ODI with a quick half-century.
Big chance for the young keeper.
