Thrilled to represent KKR, look forward to giving match-winning performances: Phil Salt

England batter Phil Salt made a late entry to the Indian Premier League 2024 as Kolkata Knight Riders named him a replacement for Jason Roy. Initially snubbed in the IPL 2024 auctions, Salt is set to return to KKR after representing Delhi Capitals in the previous season. Roy had pulled out of the T20 spectacle due to personal reasons, he had also made himself available at the eleventh hour for the Test series against India.

Salt, who is set to play his second IPL season, has been featured in nine games for the Delhi Capitals. He has amassed 218 runs at an average of 27.25. He has managed to notch up two half-centuries, with a highest score of 87 runs. With the new beginnings ahead, he exuded confidence and shed light upon his preparations. He also shared his thoughts on the franchise acquiring him ahead of the season.

“Feels good. I’m here on quite a short notice but the reception I’ve got from everyone has been exceptional. Also to come here to train at such an iconic venue like the Eden Gardens and be a part of such a successful franchise is exciting. ’m really excited. It’s actually the first time I’ve been here (Eden Gardens) and it looks brilliant and I’m sure it’s going to be pretty loud and crazy once the fans fill up on the matchday and I’m really looking forward to it,” Salt said as quoted by KKR’s official website.

“I hope I provide lots of energy along with quick starts at the top of the order and of course match winning contributions. As a professional cricketer you try to shut out the expectations from outside but the reception I’ve got from fans gives me that extra bit of motivation to make them happy,” he added.

KKR aim big with star players studded in the roster

The two-time IPL champions will begin their season with a clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Eden Gardens, on March 23. They have roped in their adopted son Gautam Gambhir as the team mentor. KKR made heads turn during the auctions as they inked a deal with Mitchell Starc for a whopping INR 24.75 crore. With Shreyas Iyer leading the pack and the likes of Andre Russell along with Rinku Singh in the XI, KKR is a team to watch out for this year.