Phil Salt of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (PTI Photo) NEW DELHI: Royal Challengers Bengaluru faced a mid-season problem after England opener Phil Salt returned home for a scan on a finger injury, questioning his immediate availability for the IPL 2026 campaign.Salt, who has been in impressive form at the top of the order, has already missed RCB’s last three matches. The 29-year-old injured his left hand while attempting a diving stop at deep backward square leg during RCB’s defeat to Delhi Capitals at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on April 18.
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RCB admit batting failure after narrow defeat | IPL 2026According to an ESPNcricinfo report, Salt “injured a finger on his left hand” during the effort and subsequently returned to the UK at the request of the England management. He has since undergone scans, with both the player and the franchise hoping for a speedy recovery and return later this month.A strong start halted by an early injuryThe setback comes at a frustrating time for Salt, who has rediscovered his rhythm in the IPL after a lean international phase. He has scored 202 runs in six innings this season at a blistering strike rate of 168.33, providing explosive starts alongside Virat Kohli.His absence has opened the door for England batsman Jacob Bethell, who has stepped in as opener but has yet to make much of an impact, managing 39 runs in three matches so far. With Salt retired, Bethell is expected to continue to get opportunities at the top of the order.RCB remain in playoff expectationDespite the injuries, RCB have enjoyed a strong season and are currently second in the points table, just behind Punjab Kings. The franchise is optimistic that Salt’s injury isn’t long-term and they want him back as they push for the playoffs.
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As per IPL regulations, RCB could consider signing a replacement if the injury is deemed season-ending, but for now the focus remains on Salt’s recovery.With the crucial stage of the tournament approaching and the next clash against Lucknow Super Giants, RCB will be hoping that their explosive opener will make a comeback soon and strengthen the already formidable batting line-up.
