Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) became the first team to qualify for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 playoffs with nine wins from 13 games. They are expected to finish in top two on the points table as well even without the services of their star English opener Phil Salt. The explosive opener has missed seven games this season due to a finger injury that saw him heading back to home. But, ahead of the playoffs, the English opener is set to return and provide a huge boost to the side.
As per a report by ESPNCricinfo on May 20, Salt will join the RCB squad later this week. RCB are set to go up against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their last league stage game on May 23. It is unclear whether he will feature in the LSG game. However, he is highly likely to be fit for the playoffs whether RCB make it to Qualifier 1 or the Eliminator considering how the week pans out.
Bethell struggles with bat, no debut for Cox
In Salt's absence, his English teammate has not been able to cross the 100-run mark this season. From seven outings, he has 96 runs at an average of 13.71 and strike rate of 124.67. His high score in the season was a run-a-ball 27 against Mumbai Indians (MI). The RCB management haven't replace Bethell in the lineup while another Englishman, Jordan Cox waits to make his IPL debut. Cox has been named as one of the potential five impact players but is yet to get a game.
Salt’s IPL 2026 numbers before injury
Before heading back home, Salt scored 202 runs from six innings, averaging 33.66 and striking at 168.33. He has two half-centuries to his name in the season already.
Last season, Salt had headed home just before the final to welcome his first child. The opener returned for the final, contributed with a cameo and took a crucial catch against Punjab Kings (PBKS) as RCB lifted the title for the first time. In big games, his services will be needed again.
The Qualifier 1 is scheduled to take place on May 26 in Dharamsala. It will be followed by Eliminator on May 27 and Qualifier 2 on May 29 in Mullanpur. The final is scheduled to be held in Ahmedabad on May 31.
Patidar to be back
Skipper Rajat Patidar who was hit on the helmet by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pacer Kartik Tyagi’s bouncer is set to return for LSG game. Patidar’s return will create a selection dilemma as Venkatesh Iyer scored a 70 in his absence.