Best replacement players in IPL history
Over the years, franchises have brought in players who weren’t even in the original plans but went on to guide their team’s fortunes.
2. Phil Salt (IN); Jason Roy (OUT) for Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024
After going unsold at the IPL 2024 auction, England's wicketkeeper-batter Phil Salt became a crucial part in Kolkata Knight Riders' title-winning run. Roped in as a late replacement for Jason Roy, who pulled out due to personal reasons, the right-handed batter was signed at his base price of INR 1.5 crore. Salt formed a solid opening partnership with Sunil Narine, with the duo providing explosive starts throughout the season.
The pair managed six 50-plus stands and combined for 559 runs, the third-best opening partnership of the tournament. The 29-year-old hammered 435 runs in 12 games at a strike rate of 182.01, including a match-winning unbeaten 89 against Lucknow Super Giants. Notably, 296 of those runs came in the powerplay at a strike rate of 185. Though he left before the playoffs for national duty, Salt’s contributions had already opened the doors for KKR’s third IPL trophy. Later, Royal Challengers Bengaluru picked him up for a hefty INR 11.5 crore in the IPL 2025 auction. So far, Salt has scored 239 runs in nine games, including two fifties.
Download Our App