Phil Salt has flown back to England for a scan, leaving Royal Challengers Bengaluru to grapple with fresh uncertainty in IPL 2026. The opener has already missed three matches and his absence is starting to create a noticeable gap at the top of the order.
According to ESPNCricinfo, Salt has returned to the UK to undergo further tests on the finger injury that has sidelined him since RCB’s defeat to Delhi Capitals on April 18. The development means RCB could be without one of their most in-form batsmen at a crucial stage of the season.
Salt has been one of RCB’s early positives this year, scoring 202 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 168.33 and consistently providing aggressive starts. His absence forced a reshuffle, with Jacob Bethell stepping in at the top alongside Virat Kohli, although the results didn’t quite match Salt’s impact.
Even the timing couldn’t have been worse for RCB. As the defending champions continue to push for momentum, the loss of an early-innings tone-setter has added to their selection headaches, especially with Bethell yet to fully settle despite widespread opportunities.
HOW DID PHIL SALT GET INJURED?
Salt’s injury originated in RCB’s home clash against Delhi Capitals.
It is understood that the wicket-keeper batsman injured a finger on his left hand while attempting a stop near deep backward square leg edge during the second innings. Most days it was a routine fielding effort, but this time it resulted in an injury serious enough to keep him out of several games.
RCB have not officially stated the extent of the damage, but the fact that Salt has now traveled back to England for scans suggests that the franchise and the ECB are taking a cautious approach.
WILL PHIL SALT CONTINUE TO PLAY IPL 2026?
So far, both Salt and RCB remain optimistic.
Scans are expected to provide clarity, but early indications are that the injury is not considered season-ending. We hope the finger heals in time for Salt to return to India later this month and rejoin RCB in the later stages of the tournament.
Meantime, Bethell is likely to continue at the top, with Jordan Cox also available as a backup option. RCB have the option of signing a replacement if the injury worsens, but for now our focus is on getting Salt back.
RCB are currently on a short mid-season break after losing to Gujarat Titans and their next match is scheduled against Lucknow Super Giants. Whether Salt returns early or later in the campaign could play a key role in shaping their title defence.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
04 May 2026 13:00 IST
