Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are poised to receive a significant boost ahead of the IPL 2026 playoffs, with explosive England opener Phil Salt expected to rejoin the squad after spending nearly a month on the sidelines due to a finger injury. According to ESPNcricinfo, Salt is likely to return to India later this week after recovering from the injury sustained during RCB's clash against Delhi Capitals on April 18.
Injury and Recovery
The wicketkeeper-batter injured a finger on his left hand while diving near the boundary ropes in an attempt to save runs. He has not featured for RCB since then and travelled back home to England to recover and spend time with his young family. His return could not have come at a better time for RCB, who are eyeing a strong finish to the league stage and a direct route into Qualifier 1.
Salt's Form Before Injury
Before his injury setback, Salt was in sensational form at the top of the order alongside Virat Kohli. In just six matches this season, he smashed 202 runs at an average of 33.67, consistently providing explosive starts in the powerplay and giving RCB momentum early in the innings. His aggressive batting style perfectly complemented Kohli's stability at the other end, forming one of the most dangerous opening combinations of IPL 2026.
Impact of Salt's Absence
In Salt's absence, young England batter Jacob Bethell has filled the opening slot alongside Kohli. However, Bethell has struggled to make a significant impact this season. Across seven matches, the left-hander has managed only 96 runs at an average of 13.71, failing to consistently capitalise on opportunities at the top of the order.
Playoff Scenarios
If Salt is not available in time for RCB's final league-stage clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 22, Bethell is expected to continue opening alongside Kohli. However, once the playoffs begin, Salt will walk straight back into the playing XI if declared fully fit.
RCB's Current Standing
Defending champions RCB currently sit comfortably at the top of the IPL 2026 points table with nine wins from 13 matches and remain one of the strongest contenders for the title this season. A win against Sunrisers Hyderabad in their final league match would guarantee a top-place finish and secure a spot in Qualifier 1. They will also take confidence from their recent victory against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, the same venue scheduled to host Qualifier 1.
