IPL 2026: RCB receive huge playoff boost, explosive batter likely to return

As the IPL 2026 league stage nears its conclusion, the playoff race has almost been finalized. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans, and Sunrisers Hyderabad have already secured their spots in the playoffs, with RCB becoming the first team to qualify this season. The Bengaluru-based franchise is now aiming to finish at the top of the points table and carry strong momentum into the knockout stage. In a major boost for RCB ahead of the playoffs, explosive English opener Phil Salt is expected to return to the squad soon. Salt has been out of action for more than a month after suffering a finger injury during RCB’s match against Delhi Capitals on April 18 in Bengaluru. The wicketkeeper-batter injured his left finger while attempting to stop a boundary during the game and was forced to leave the tournament midway. According to recent reports, Phil Salt is likely to return to India by the end of this week after spending recovery time with his family in England. His rehabilitation has reportedly gone well, and the player is now close to regaining full fitness. RCB fans will be excited about his comeback, especially considering the aggressive starts he provided at the top of the order earlier this season. However, his participation in RCB’s final league-stage clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 22 is still uncertain. The RCB management may choose not to risk rushing him back before the playoffs, especially with Qualifier 1 approaching. If the points table remains unchanged, RCB are expected to play the first qualifier in Dharamsala on May 26. During Salt’s absence, young batter Jacob Bethell partnered Virat Kohli at the top of the order but struggled to deliver consistent performances, scoring only 96 runs in seven matches. On the other hand, Venkatesh Iyer impressed in the recent match against Punjab Kings with an unbeaten 73-run knock, giving the team another strong batting option. With Phil Salt close to returning, RCB’s batting lineup could receive a massive lift at the perfect time. His comeback may strengthen the team’s chances of making a deep playoff run and possibly ending their long wait for an IPL title.