Bad News for RCB! Phil Salt flies back to UK amid IPL 2026 after finger INJURY; Know here
(Courtesy : BCCI/IPL)
Phil Salt’s injury comes as massive blow for RCB in IPL 2026.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) opener Phil Salt has been dealing with a finger injury during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The injury has already forced him to miss the last three matches. This has come at a time when RCB are trying to maintain momentum as defending champions.
RCB have had a mixed run so far this season. The team, led by Rajat Patidar, started well but has faced a few setbacks in recent games. Their batting has looked slightly unsettled if the top order doesn’t get a good start. Salt’s absence has added to that concern.
Before the injury, Salt was in excellent form. He scored 202 runs in six innings at a strong strike rate of 168.33. His aggressive starts helped RCB put pressure on bowlers early in matches. His injury has therefore created a noticeable gap in the lineup.
Phil Salt flies to UK for scans amid IPL 2026
As per a report by ESPN cricinfo, Salt has now travelled back to UK for medical scans after the finger injury did not heal fully. The issue reportedly happened during a match against Delhi Capitals on April 18. He hurt his left hand while attempting a diving stop near the boundary. Since then, he has been out of action.
As a result, Jacob Bethell has continued to open the innings for RCB. The young batter has stepped in as a replacement and is getting valuable game time. The team management is backing him to deliver in Salt’s absence.
There is still hope within the camp that Salt will recover soon and return later this month. His comeback will be important as RCB aim to defend their title. The team won the trophy for the first time last season and want to repeat that success.
Salt had earlier praised the team environment under director of cricket Mo Bobat, head coach Andy Flower, and mentor Dinesh Karthik. He had also regained form in the IPL after a quiet ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
RCB are currently on a short break after their loss to Gujarat Titans. They will next face Lucknow Super Giants on May 7.
Why is Phil Salt not playing in IPL 2026?
He has a finger injury on his left hand.
Who is replacing him in the team?
Jacob Bethell is opening the batting in his place.
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Ishika Aggarwal is a passionate sports writer and lifelong cricket fan who thrives on capturing the moments that make the game unforgettable, from last-over thrillers to record-breaking centuries. Through match analysis, player profiles, and behind-the-scenes stories, she brings fans closer to the heartbeat of cricket.