Virat Kohli’s RCB Teammate Announces Pregnancy Before Marriage – Who is His Girlfriend?

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Virat Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bangalore teammate Phil Salt has found himself in headlines, but not for a batting score or record this time. As RCB strides into the IPL 2025 playoffs, Salt has opted out of the high-stakes stage due to an entirely different responsibility: he is about to become a father.

His girlfriend, Abi McLaven, is reportedly pregnant. The couple has reportedly shared five years together since first meeting in 2020. McLaven, a Manchester-based virtual assistant with a degree from Nottingham Trent University, has mostly stayed away from the public glare. However, her quiet presence and strong bond with Salt have long been admired by those who follow them online.

Salt Steps Away from IPL Playoffs

Salt’s absence from RCB’s last two matches initially sparked concerns over fitness. Now, the picture is clearer. Reports confirm he won’t participate in the upcoming playoff matches because he’s heading home to be with McLaven as they prepare to welcome their child.

This development comes at a crucial point for Bangalore, who were just beginning to regain form. Yet for Salt, the priority is crystal clear. Family first. His decision, while surprising to many fans, has drawn a quiet wave of support for placing personal life ahead of cricket.

Who is Abi McLaven?

McLaven is not a face you’ll often see in stadium galleries or paparazzi shots. She prefers a life behind the lens. Based in Manchester, England, she works as a freelance virtual assistant, focusing on social media marketing, digital strategy, and business consultation.

She graduated with a degree in Land Use Planning and Development from Nottingham Trent University, showing that her professional choices are rooted in a solid academic base.

Salt and McLaven have reportedly been together since 2020. Unlike many high-profile relationships in the cricket world, theirs isn’t flaunted or curated for cameras. Instead, it reflects normalcy, comfort, and mutual space.

Fans who follow them admire the genuineness of their bond. The chemistry between the two is often seen in their shared photos — simple, affectionate, and free of showmanship. With McLaven now expecting their first child, the couple’s story is reaching a new, personal milestone. There’s also quiet speculation that the two may tie the knot soon after the baby arrives.

RCB Finds a Backup in Seifert

Salt’s departure is certainly a blow for Bangalore’s campaign. His explosive presence at the top was key to their recent resurgence. However, RCB has moved swiftly to cover the gap. New Zealand’s Tim Seifert, a seasoned right-handed opener, has been included in the squad as his replacement.

Seifert is in fine rhythm, having recently punished Pakistani bowlers with a powerful innings. His inclusion provides depth, but fans know that Salt’s unique batting style and on-field energy will be missed.

Salt’s exit from the IPL 2025 playoffs is not due to injury or form, but for something far more meaningful. As he prepares to embrace fatherhood, attention has shifted to his relationship with Abi McLaven — a woman who has been with him quietly, loyally, and away from the spotlight.