IPL News Bulletin May 26: Phil Salt update, Shresta Iyer responds to trolls, Impact Player rule latest

Playoff selection headaches, player availability concerns, online abuse controversies and a major betting crackdown - IPL 2026 continues to make headlines both on and off the field as teams prepare for the knockout stage.

1. Phil Salt fit but RCB yet to decide on Qualifier 1 selection

Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Rajat Patidar has confirmed that opener Phil Salt is fit again but remains under observation ahead of Qualifier 1 against Gujarat Titans.

Salt returned after recovering from the finger injury that forced him to leave for England last month. However, Patidar said RCB are yet to finalise their playing XI and will make a decision after assessing conditions.

The skipper also praised Venkatesh Iyer's flexibility, highlighting how the batter has successfully adapted to multiple roles in the batting order whenever required.

2. Punjab Kings co-owner calls for better alignment on overseas player availability

Punjab Kings co-owner Mohit Burman believes cricket boards and franchises need greater coordination to avoid uncertainty over overseas player availability during the IPL.

Burman pointed to cases involving Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, whose delayed arrivals impacted team planning. While acknowledging the demands of international schedules, he stressed that franchises require greater clarity after making major auction investments.

The comments add to a growing debate around balancing international commitments with IPL obligations.

3. Shresta Iyer hits back at online abuse after viral Punjab Kings reel

Shresta Iyer, sister of Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer, has publicly responded to months of online harassment following a viral social media video involving the franchise.

In a strongly worded Instagram statement, she revealed that trolls had targeted not only her but also her family, colleagues and students, including making calls to her workplace.

Shresta said the original video was intended as light-hearted banter and condemned the personal attacks, while pledging to continue supporting her brother regardless of results.

4. Odisha police bust IPL betting syndicate, eight arrested

Police in Odisha's Brajrajnagar have dismantled an alleged IPL betting racket operating through online platforms, arresting eight people during coordinated raids.

Authorities seized over ₹5 lakh in cash, two laptops, 41 mobile phones, vehicles and multiple SIM cards. Investigators say the accused used live-score applications and betting platforms to facilitate illegal wagering and attract participants with promises of quick profits.

A wider financial probe and search for additional suspects is ongoing.

5. Impact Player rule remains unchanged until at least IPL 2027

Despite growing criticism from players and commentators, the IPL's Impact Player rule has not been modified or removed.

BCCI officials reportedly confirmed during pre-season discussions that the regulation remains locked into the current competition cycle and will stay in place through the end of IPL 2027.

While several captains are understood to have raised concerns about the impact on all-rounders and player development, any formal review is not expected before 2028.