IPL 2026: Phil Salt returns home mid-season for scans, RCB face anxious wait

TL;DR

Phil Salt has returned to the UK for scans on a finger injury, raising concerns about his availability for RCB in IPL 2026. He has missed the last three matches after injuring his left hand during a game against Delhi Capitals.

Key points

Phil Salt returned to the UK for scans on a finger injury
He has missed the last three matches for RCB
Salt injured his left hand during a match against Delhi Capitals
He scored 202 runs at a strike rate of 168.33 in six innings this season
His return is hoped for later this month

Phil SaltRoyal Challengers BengaluruIPL 2026Delhi Capitals

NEW DELHI: Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been dealt a mid-season concern after England opener Phil Salt returned home for scans on a finger injury, casting doubt over his immediate availability in the IPL 2026 campaign.

Salt, who had been in impressive form at the top of the order, has already missed RCB’s last three matches. The 29-year-old is understood to have 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.

According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, Salt “damaged a finger on his left hand” during that effort and subsequently returned to the United Kingdom at the request of England’s management. He has since undergone scans, with both the player and franchise hopeful of a swift recovery and a return later this month.

Strong start halted by untimely injury
The setback comes at a frustrating time for Salt, who had rediscovered his rhythm in the IPL after a lean international phase. In six innings this season, he has scored 202 runs at a blistering strike rate of 168.33, providing explosive starts alongside Virat Kohli.

His absence has opened the door for fellow England batter Jacob Bethell, who has stepped in as opener but is yet to make a significant impact, managing 39 runs in three outings so far. With Salt sidelined, Bethell is expected to continue getting opportunities at the top of the order.

RCB remain hopeful amid playoff push
Despite the injury blow, RCB have enjoyed a strong season and currently sit second on the points table, just behind Punjab Kings. The franchise is optimistic that Salt’s injury is not long-term and are keen to have him back as they push towards the playoffs.

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Under 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 a crucial phase of the tournament approaching and a clash against Lucknow Super Giants next, RCB will hope their explosive opener returns soon to bolster an already formidable batting lineup.

Q&A

What injury did Phil Salt sustain during IPL 2026?

Phil Salt sustained a finger injury on his left hand while attempting a diving stop during a match against Delhi Capitals.

How many matches has Phil Salt missed for RCB due to his injury?

Phil Salt has missed the last three matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru due to his finger injury.

When is Phil Salt expected to return to IPL 2026 after his injury?

Both Phil Salt and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru are hopeful for his return later this month following his scans.