Big support for RCB! Phil Salt is all set to make a comeback before the IPL 2026 playoffs

RCB opener Phil Salt (Image: ANI) Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set to get a massive boost ahead of the IPL 2026 playoffs, with explosive England opener Phil Salt likely to rejoin the team after spending almost a month on the sidelines due to injury.According to ESPNcricinfo, Salt is expected to return to India later this week after recovering from a finger injury sustained during RCB’s clash with Delhi Capitals on April 18. The keeper injured his left hand finger while diving near the boundary ropes in an attempt to save runs. He has not played for RCB since then and traveled home to England to recuperate and spend time with his young family.Salt’s return couldn’t have come at a better time for RCB, who are eyeing a strong finish to the league stage and a direct trip to Qualifier 1. Before the injury setback, the England star was in sensational form at the top of the order alongside Virat Kohli.In just six matches this season, Salt has smashed 202 runs at an average of 33.67, consistently providing explosive starts in the power-play and giving RCB momentum early in the innings. His aggressive batting style perfectly complemented Kohli’s stability at the other end and formed one of the most dangerous opening combinations of IPL 2026.In Salt’s absence, young English batsman Jacob Bethell filled in alongside Kohli. However, Bethell has struggled to make a big impact this season. In seven matches, the left-hander managed just 96 runs at an average of 13.71, failing to consistently capitalize on opportunities at the top of the order.If Salt is unavailable in time for RCB’s final league-phase match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 22, Bethell is expected to continue opening alongside Kohli. Once the playoffs begin, however, Salt will return directly to the starting XI if he is declared fully fit.Defending champions RCB are currently 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 last league match would guarantee the top spot and secure a place in Qualifier 1. They will also take confidence from their recent win against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, the same venue that is scheduled to host Qualifier 1.

Which player do you think has had the biggest impact on RCB this season?