RCB hit by injury scare ahead of IPL Season 19: Four key players under recovery

Tim David, Phil Salt, Josh Hazlewood and skipper Rajat Patidar face fitness concerns as Royal Challengers Bengaluru brace for IPL 2026 preparations.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have suffered a major setback just weeks before the start of IPL Season 19, with four of their crucial players currently dealing with injury issues. The situation has raised concern within the team management and support staff as the mega tournament approaches.

The injured players include RCB captain Rajat Patidar, Australian power-hitter Tim David, England wicketkeeper-batter Phil Salt, and experienced fast bowler Josh Hazlewood. All four are undergoing recovery and rehabilitation, and the franchise is hopeful they will regain full fitness before the IPL begins.

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Tim David picked up a Grade-2 hamstring injury during the Big Bash League. Medical assessments suggest he may require 8 to 10 weeks to fully recover. As a result, there is a possibility that the Australian all-round power-hitter could miss the opening matches of the tournament.

Phil Salt, on the other hand, sustained a back injury while playing in the International League T20. Due to persistent discomfort, the England international is expected to be unavailable for a few matches. Any delay in recovery could also impact his preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup alongside the IPL.

Josh Hazlewood’s situation remains a concern for RCB. The Australian pacer is battling hamstring and back injuries and recently suffered a fresh setback during rehabilitation, which had earlier forced him out of the Ashes Test series. His recurring fitness issues have added to RCB’s worries.

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RCB captain Rajat Patidar injured his finger during the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Despite the injury, he has continued to play for his state team. While the exact severity of the finger injury is unclear, Patidar has taken the risk of leading his side. Notably, he had also dealt with knee issues a few months ago before making a comeback after rehabilitation.

The RCB management remains optimistic that all four players will recover in time. However, if even one of them fails to regain fitness, it could significantly affect the team’s strategy and balance for IPL Season 19. Fans across the state will be hoping for swift recoveries so that the full-strength RCB squad can take the field.

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