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.
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.
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.
He has been replaced by Surrey batter Jamie Smith,” said the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in a statement on Thursday.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.
