As Royal Challengers Bengaluru prepare to face Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026’s high-stakes Qualifier 1 at Dharamshala today, all eyes are on English opener Phil Salt and whether he will be fit enough to take the field.
Salt has been sidelined for over a month after injuring his left finger while fielding during RCB’s match against Delhi Capitals on April 18. He initially returned to England for scans and treatment before rejoining the RCB camp ahead of the playoffs.
The batter played six matches this season, scoring 202 runs at an impressive strike rate, providing RCB with explosive starts at the top of the order.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, RCB skipper Rajat Patidar offered a cautiously optimistic update. “Salt is fit. He is under observation from the doctor. He has been participating in a few drills but we haven’t decided on our Playing XI yet. We will look at the wicket and decide,” Patidar said.
In Salt’s absence, Jacob Bethell initially stepped in as opener, but after Bethell also picked up an injury, Venkatesh Iyer took up the role alongside Virat Kohli and impressed with a standout knock against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
A final decision on Salt’s inclusion is expected just before the toss. RCB, who topped the points table with 18 points from 14 matches, will advance directly to the IPL 2026 Final if they win tonight.
