The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been the team to beat in IPL 2026, sitting comfortably at the second spot on the points table. However, as they head into a crucial away game against the Delhi Capitals today, the "injury bug" has started to nibble at their core. With the high-stakes environment of the Arun Jaitley Stadium awaiting them, fans are asking one pressing question: Is the current RCB injury list too heavy for the team to carry?
The Big Blow: Phil Salt Sidelined
The most glaring omission from the RCB lineup today is English explosive opener Phil Salt. Salt, who has been instrumental in providing lightning-fast starts alongside Virat Kohli, sustained an injury during a net session prior to the previous game against Gujarat Titans.
Batting coach and mentor Dinesh Karthik has confirmed that Salt is still in recovery and will miss today’s clash against Delhi. In his absence, young Jacob Bethell is expected to continue opening the innings. While Bethell showed glimpses of aggression in the last match, replacing a seasoned campaigner like Salt—who has already notched multiple fifties this season—is no small feat.
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The Bowling Concern: Rasikh Salam Dar
It’s not just the batting that’s under the scanner. Emerging pacer Rasikh Salam Dar is also battling fitness concerns. After leaving the field during the encounter with the Gujarat Titans, his availability for today remains a "touch and go" situation. Rasikh has been a vital cog in RCB’s death bowling resurgence, and his absence could force a reshuffle in a bowling department that has finally found its rhythm with Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
Can RCB’s Depth Cover the Cracks?
Despite these injuries, RCB’s squad depth remains their greatest insurance policy. The middle order, powered by Rajat Patidar and the finishing prowess of Tim David, has been clinical. Furthermore, the form of Devdutt Padikkal has provided a stabilizing force that allows the team to absorb the loss of a primary opener.
The Arun Jaitley Stadium is known for its short boundaries and batting-friendly surface. In such a venue, missing a strike-rate king like Phil Salt could be the difference between a 200+ score and a par 180. However, with Virat Kohli in "no holds barred" mode, the Bengaluru side still holds a 55.3% win probability according to latest projections.
The Verdict: Will It Cost Them?
Delhi Capitals are currently struggling at 7th place and are desperate for a win. While the RCB injury list gives DC a window of opportunity, the reigning champions have displayed a "next man up" mentality all season. If Jacob Bethell can provide a stable start and the bowling unit stays disciplined in the middle overs, RCB should be able to overcome these personnel setbacks.