Phil Salt has reportedly been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 league-stage matches, although the England batter is expected to return for the playoffs if RCB qualify.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have suffered a major setback ahead of their crucial IPL 2026 fixture against Punjab Kings at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on May 17. The defending champions are currently leading the points table with 16 points and are on the verge of securing qualification for the playoffs under Rajat Patidar’s captaincy.
However, RCB will continue to remain without explosive England wicketkeeper-batter Phil Salt, who has been sidelined due to injury. Salt has not featured for Bengaluru since their clash against Delhi Capitals on April 18 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where he sustained a finger injury during the match.
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Following the injury setback, Salt travelled back to the United Kingdom to continue his rehabilitation and recovery process. His absence has been a significant concern for the franchise, especially considering the impact he had during RCB’s title-winning IPL 2025 campaign.
Report Reveals Phil Salt Could Return During IPL 2026 Playoffs
In a fresh development, reports have now confirmed that Phil Salt will miss the remaining league-stage matches of IPL 2026. The England star is currently continuing his rehabilitation in the UK and is not expected to return before the knockout phase of the tournament.
According to a report by HT journalist Vishesh Roy, Salt could still rejoin the Bengaluru camp later in the tournament if the franchise qualifies for the playoffs.
“Update on Phil Salt: Will miss the remainder of the league stage. But expected to be back for the playoffs. He’s still in the UK.”
With Salt unavailable, Royal Challengers Bengaluru have handed opportunities to youngster Jacob Bethell, who has been opening the innings in recent games.
Phil Salt’s Numbers Before Injury And Bethell’s Struggles
Before suffering the finger injury, Phil Salt had played six innings for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026. The aggressive opener scored 202 runs at an average of 33.67 while maintaining an impressive strike rate of 168.33.
His standout knock of the season came against Mumbai Indians, where he smashed 78 runs from just 36 deliveries at a strike rate of 216.67, playing a crucial role in RCB’s victory.
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Meanwhile, Jacob Bethell has not been able to make a major impact despite getting consistent opportunities at the top of the order. The young batter has featured in six matches and scored 85 runs at an average of 14.16 with a strike rate of 121.42.
RCB will now hope their current combination can continue delivering results in the remaining league matches before a possible return for Salt during the IPL 2026 playoffs.
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