Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar shared an important fitness update on the explosive England dough Phil Salt much earlier than expected IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 against Gujarat Titans. The blockbuster encounter will take place at the picturesque HPCA Stadium on Tuesday, with a direct place in the final at stake.
RCB supporters have been waiting for clarity on Duz’s availability after the wicketkeeper-batsman suffered a finger injury earlier in the tournament. Although the franchise has not officially confirmed his inclusion in the playing XI, Patidar’s recent comments have certainly boosted optimism in the camp.
Phil Salt returns to training after injury
Notably, Salt returned to UK after injuring his finger during RCB’s league stage match. Capitals of Delhi on April 18. His absence was a major setback for Bengaluru as the impact he made at the top of the order before being sidelined was taken into account.
The aggressive right-hander has been among RCB’s standout performers this season and has been instrumental in securing the team the top two in the points table. Known for his fearless approach during the powerplay, Salt consistently provided quick starts and put the opposition bowlers under pressure from the very start.
Ahead of the playoffs, Salt rejoined the RCB squad and was seen participating in training sessions ahead of the Qualifier 1 clash. His return to practice immediately led to speculation about a possible return in the playoffs.
Rajat Patidar gives an update on Salt’s fitness
Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Patidar confirmed that Salt has resumed his cricketing activities but added that the medical staff is still closely monitoring his condition. According to the RCB skipper, the management will take the final decision after assessing both the player’s fitness and the pitch conditions in Dharamsala.
“Duz is healthy. He is under medical supervision. He has participated in several training sessions, but we have not decided our playing eleven yet. We will look at the goal and decide.” Patidar said.
The renewal comes as a significant relief for RCB, especially after the young England batsman Jacob Bethell out of action due to injury. Bethell stepped into the side during Salt’s absence and made useful contributions, but his unavailability once again forced Bengaluru to rethink their combination.
The return of the English batsman could turn RCB’s playoff campaign around
With a place in the IPL 2026 final, Salt’s potential return could dramatically strengthen RCB’s batting unit. His attacking style complements the firepower of the mid-range and allows the side to dominate during the crucial power play. RCB enter the competition with strong momentum and confidence after a successful league campaign. A win over Gujarat Titans will send them straight into the finals and also provide valuable recovery time ahead of the title clash. For a franchise defending its IPL crown, Salt’s possible comeback could be one of the biggest boosts at the perfect time.
