Former Indian spin-bowling all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed his admiration for England's wicketkeeper-batter Phil Salt, labeling him the "most valuable T20 batter in the world". This statement was made during Ashwin's latest YouTube video as he analyzed Salt's performances during the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 season, where Salt played for the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.
Ashwin pointed out Salt's past performances and current form, noting: "Phil Salt played for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. We can say he could be the most valuable T20 batter in the world. So, if we look at his performance considering this, he is not coming in with very good form. He scored a 70 and it was a very struggling 70." This reflects Ashwin's mixed view on Salt's abilities versus his recent scoring struggles.
Salt started his ILT20 campaign with style, scoring 71 runs unbeaten against the Desert Vipers but then suffered through two underwhelming outings, managing just four runs combined. His performance at the top of the order for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season was commendable, leading to significant anticipation for his next appearances. Despite this hype, KKR failed to retain him for the IPL 2025 mega auction. Instead, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) acquired him for ₹11 crore, highlighting his market value.
Despite these accolades, Salt has yet to establish himself against India, with only 13 runs scored across two innings, including the T20 World Cup 2025 semifinal. Across his T20I career, he has amassed 1,106 runs from 38 matches, maintaining an impressive average of 36.86 and strike rate of 165.32 with three centuries and four half-centuries.
Ashwin also took the opportunity to tout Salt's fellow countryman and teammate Jacob Bethell, indicating he is another rising star worth watching. The 21-year-old, who was purchased for ₹2.6 crore by RCB, has impressed Ashwin with his performance. Ashwin stated, "His entry to international cricket till now in Test cricket and whatever white-ball cricket he has played, he has entertained to the core. This guy has so much ability he can do anything. He would definitely be a player to watch out for." Bethell's early T20I statistics show promise, with 173 runs over seven matches, averaging 57.66 and showcasing his dynamic hitting with a strike rate of 167.96.
Ashwin also addressed the performance of Salt's opening partner, Ben Duckett, bearing witness to his evolution under head coach Brendon McCullum's famed "Bazball" style of play. "I know him very well. I played county cricket with him. He is a fearless cricketer. The success he has had as an opening batter can he replicate it in white-ball cricket?" Ashwin reflected, underlining Duckett's dual prowess across different formats.
The anticipation around the upcoming five-match T20I series between India and England is palpable, set to commence at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Ashwin’s comments signal the tension surrounding the performances of Salt and his peers, as they transition from league play to international competition. This series will also mark McCullum's first major assignment as England's white-ball coach, increasing the stakes for the entire squad.
The England team for the series features dynamic names, with Salt expected to play a significant role. The confirmed lineup includes Ben Duckett, Phil Salt (wk), Jos Buttler (c), Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, and Mark Wood. The choices made by coach McCullum will be closely observed as his strategies take root within the team.
With Ashwin's endorsements and the aspirations surrounding Salt and Bethell, the stage is set for what promises to be not just a contest for victory on the field, but also a very personal battle for individual reputation. Fans and analysts alike will keep watch to see if Salt can convert Ashwin's high praise and their expectations of him on the international stage, beginning against the formidable Indian side.