Rajat Patidar Provides Update on Phil Salt and His Own Injury Scare | IPL 2026
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RCB’s Momentum Continues as Patidar Addresses Injury Concerns
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have firmly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the IPL 2026 season. Following a clinical six-wicket victory over the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the 57th group-stage match, the defending champions have moved to the top of the points table, effectively pushing KKR to the brink of elimination. While the focus remains on their qualification for the playoffs, the team is currently navigating significant injury concerns involving key players.
Phil Salt’s Uncertain Return
The absence of swashbuckling English opener Phil Salt has been a major talking point for the Bengaluru faithful. Salt, who was in scintillating form prior to his injury, sustained a finger issue during the high-stakes clash against the Delhi Capitals. Before being forced to the sidelines, Salt had accumulated 202 runs in six innings at an impressive strike rate of 168.33.
His replacement at the top of the order, Jacob Bethell, has struggled to replicate that impact. The youngster has managed only 85 runs across six innings, averaging a meager 14.17, which has left many fans anxious for Salt’s return. During the post-match presentation following the win against KKR, Captain Rajat Patidar was asked to provide a timeline for the Englishman’s comeback. Patidar remained cautious, stating that he does not have an exact date for Salt’s return, though he expressed optimism that the batter would be back in action soon.
A Frightening Moment for the RCB Captain
Beyond the concerns surrounding his teammates, the RCB camp faced a moment of collective anxiety during the chase against KKR. In the 14th over, captain Rajat Patidar was struck by a sharp, high-velocity bouncer from KKR pacer Kartik Tyagi. The ball caught Patidar squarely on the back of his helmet, a blow that immediately halted play as the team physio rushed onto the field to conduct a mandatory concussion assessment.
Reflecting on the incident after the match, Patidar maintained a composed demeanor, assuring fans and stakeholders that he was recovering well. “I’m okay. It was a proper headshot, but I’m fine now,” Patidar noted. Despite the severity of the impact, he was able to continue his duties and steer his side toward a crucial win.
Looking Ahead to the Playoffs
With the victory over Kolkata, RCB has officially moved to the summit of the points table. Virat Kohli, who anchored the chase with a masterful century, continues to lead the batting charge, providing the stability the team needs as they enter the business end of the tournament.
Patidar emphasized the importance of staying grounded despite the recent success. “So far, we’ve played good cricket. There are still two league games left, and we are taking things one match at a time,” the captain added. The team is now set to travel to Dharamsala, a venue known for its batting-friendly conditions, where they will face the Punjab Kings on May 17. Their final group-stage encounter is scheduled for May 22 against the Sunrisers Hyderabad.
As the Royal Challengers Bengaluru look to defend their title, the fitness of their core players will remain a decisive factor. While the immediate scare surrounding Patidar appears to have passed, the status of Phil Salt remains a situation that the coaching staff will monitor closely in the coming days. For now, the team’s focus is clear: maintaining their winning momentum and securing a top-two finish in the league standings.
