DC vs RCB, IPL 2026: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are set to hand Jacob Bethell another opportunity in IPL 2026 despite a brief stay in the game against the Gujarat Titans in their previous fixture against the Gujarat Titans at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Bethell is all set to get another chance against the Delhi Capitals on April 27, Monday, given Phil Salt is still nursing the injury that forced him out of the match against the Titans.
DC vs RCB, IPL 2026: When is Phil Salt expected to come back and join Virat Kohli at the top?
According to Royal Challengers’ mentor Dinesh Karthik, Salt is still injured and there is no timeline on his comeback. Bethell, who fetched a contract worth ₹2.60 crore ahead of IPL 2025, played only two matches in the previous season. Due to his fellow England teammate’s injury, the left-handed batter got an opportunity but made only 14 off 11 deliveries before being dismissed by Mohammed Siraj.
The defending champions would expect Salt to be back before the business end of the tournament approaches to ensure their qualification for the playoffs.
DC vs RCB, IPL 2026: Where are Royal Challengers Bengaluru and the Delhi Capitals placed in the points table?
With five wins from seven matches, the Royal Challengers are placed second in the points table behind the unbeaten Punjab Kings and seem destined to qualify for the playoffs. However, the Capitals found themselves in a tricky spot, languishing sixth in the standings. Axar Patel and co. would have been further demotivated after losing to the Punjab Kings at home despite mustering 264 as a host of fielding lapses cost them the game. With another aggressive batting unit up against them, the Capitals face an uphill challenge.
But the Capitals will take some confidence from their win over the Royal Challengers a few days ago at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, RCB start overwhelming favourites on current form. Spotlight will also be on Virat Kohli, who will be playing on his home ground.
