New Delhi: Royal Challengers Bangalore were under scrutiny mid-season after England opener Phil Salt returned home for scans with a finger injury, casting doubts over his immediate availability for IPL 2026.Salter’s form in the points table has been impressive but he has missed RCB’s last three games. It is learned that the 29-year-old injured his left hand while trying to dive deep behind leg during RCB’s loss to Delhi Capitals at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on April 18.According to ESPNcricinfo, Salter “injured a finger on his left hand” in that effort and later returned to England at the request of the England management. He has since undergone scans and both player and team are hopeful of a speedy recovery and return later this month.Strong start halted by untimely injuryThe setback comes at a frustrating time for Salter, who is rediscovering his rhythm in the IPL after a difficult international spell. In six innings this season, he has scored 202 runs at a stunning strike rate of 168.33, providing an explosive start alongside Virat Kohli.His absence opens the door for fellow England batsmen Jacob Bethelhe came on as an opener but is yet to make a significant impact, scoring 39 runs in three games so far. With Salter sidelined, Bethel is expected to continue to get opportunities at the top of the order.RCB remains hopeful in playoffsDespite being hit by injuries, RCB has had a strong season and is currently second in the points table behind Kings XI Punjab. The team is optimistic that Salter’s injury won’t be long-term and is eager to have him back in the playoffs.As per IPL rules, if the injury is deemed season-ending, RCB can look at signing a replacement, but the focus for now remains on Salt’s recovery.With the crucial phase of the tournament approaching and the upcoming match against Lucknow Supergiants, RCB will be hoping that their explosive openers will return soon to bolster their already formidable batting line-up.
