Royal Challengers Bengaluru's hunt for a maiden IPL trophy has been dealt a major blow ahead of the final against Punjab Kings, with star opener Phil Salt reportedly unavailable for the all-important clash. The English batter reportedly is awaiting the birth of his first child and wasn’t seen at RCB’s training session on the eve of the match in Ahmedabad. According to ESPNCricinfo, Salt has likely left India to be with his partner, casting serious doubt over his participation in the final. Neither RCB captain Rajat Patidar nor head coach Andy Flower addressed the situation at the pre-match press conference, choosing to remain tight-lipped just hours before the decider at the Narendra Modi Stadium. This wouldn’t be the first time Flower has played his cards close to his chest. Throughout the season, RCB have been known to keep opposition teams guessing, with even injured players seen doing warm-up drills during previous matches. However, Salt’s absence from the final training session has only fuelled speculation further. Also READ: "I told him to stay calm, but he doesn't listen": AB de Villiers on emotional side of Virat Kohli RCB’s opening woes deepen as final hangs in the balance Phil Salt has been one of RCB’s most impactful players this season, scoring 387 runs from 12 innings at a blistering strike-rate of 175.90 and an average of 35.18. His likely absence leaves a major gap at the top, especially with fellow overseas opener Jacob Bethell already back home to join the England squad for the West Indies series. Also READ: IPL 2025 Final: Will Tim David return for RCB vs PBKS? Rajat Patidar gives an update If Salt is indeed ruled out, RCB may turn to either Tim Seifert or Mayank Agarwal to fill the opening role in the final. 🚨PHIL SALT MIGHT MISS FINAL🚨- Phil Salt was not present in RCB's last practice session of #IPL2025 [ESPNCricinfo] pic.twitter.com/DN0xYdnkxt — RCBIANS OFFICIAL (@RcbianOfficial) June 2, 2025 The IPL 2025 final is shaping up to be a historic one, with both RCB and PBKS searching for their first title. The two teams have met 36 times in the IPL, with the head-to-head record perfectly balanced at 18-18. However, RCB have won two of their three meetings this season, including the Qualifier 1 clash. Update: Phil Salt has joined the squad this morning.