England opener Phil Salt is set to miss England’s three-match T20I series against West Indies on paternity leave. Salt requested England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for paternity leave, which was approved by the board.
Following the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings, Phil Salt flew back to England for the birth of his child last Thursday. Later, he returned to India to join RCB ahead of the IPL 2025 final between RCB and Punjab Kings on Tuesday. In the final, Salt scored 16 off 9 balls. He also took a stunning catch to make a valuable contribution.
“England and Lancashire batter Phil Salt has been granted permission to withdraw from the England Men’s IT20 squad for the upcoming three-match Vitality Series against the West Indies. Salt, who is taking time away on paternity leave following the birth of his child earlier this week, will now spend time at home. He has been replaced in the squad by Surrey batter Jamie Smith,” the ECB stated in an official statement.
Jamie Smith has been named Salt’s replacement in the squad. Smith has played two T20Is, scoring 28 runs.