Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set to get a huge boost ahead of the IPL 2026 playoffs, with England’s explosive opener. Full salt He is likely to return to the squad after spending almost a month on the sidelines due to injury.According to ESPNcricinfo, Salt is expected to return to India this weekend after recovering from a finger injury sustained during RCB’s clash against Delhi Capitals on April 18. The wicketkeeper-batsman injured his left finger while diving near the boundary ropes in an attempt to save runs. He has not featured for RCB since then and went back to England to recuperate and spend time with his young family.Salt’s return could not have come at a better time for RCB, who are looking for a strong finish in the league stage and a direct route into Qualifier 1. Before his injury, the English star was in sensational form at the top of the order alongside Virat Kohli. In just six matches this season, Salt has scored 202 runs at an average of 33.67, providing consistent explosive starts in the powerplay and giving RCB momentum at the start of the innings. His aggressive batting style perfectly complemented Kohli’s stability at the other end, creating one of the most dangerous opening combinations of IPL 2026.In Salt’s absence, young England batsman Jacob Bethel has filled the opening slot alongside Kohli. However, Bethel has struggled to make a significant impact this season. In seven matches, the left-hander has managed just 96 runs at an average of 13.71, failing to consistently capitalize on opportunities at the top of the order.If Namak is not available in time for RCB’s final league stage clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 22, Bethel is expected to continue opening alongside Kohli. However, once the playoffs begin, Salt will return straight to the playing XI if he is declared fully fit.Defending champions RCB are currently sitting comfortably atop the IPL 2026 points table with nine wins from 13 matches and are among the strong contenders for the title this season. A win against Sunrisers Hyderabad in their final league match would guarantee a top-placed finish and a place in Qualifier 1. They will also take confidence from their recent victory against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, the same venue to host Qualifier 1.
