Lungi Ngidi is back—and for Delhi Capitals supporters, it’s the kind of update that immediately lifts spirits. The South African fast bowler had suffered a head knock in an earlier IPL 2026 fixture against Punjab Kings while going for a catch. He was taken to hospital straight away, and the situation understandably worried fans. Now, with Ngidi medically cleared, he is ready to return to action, turning fears into relief.
On Thursday, the Delhi Capitals shared a video on X that offered a glimpse of Ngidi’s comeback. In the clip, New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson is shown first, saying, “Lungi is back. He is back, again.” The next moment features South Africa batter David Miller echoing the same message. Shortly after, the video shows Ngidi prepared to bowl at the stumps, with the middle peg missing. He then successfully hits the second stump on the leg side, before celebrating in his signature style—arms spread wide, followed by a jump and a downward punch in the air.
Ngidi’s injury on April 25 had been a major blow for Delhi. He was unable to bowl any deliveries in that match, and Punjab Kings made full use of the opening. PBKS chased down 265—the highest total ever recorded in IPL history—leaving the Capitals with a tough loss.
Two days later, on April 27, Ngidi posted a brief update on Instagram, thanking fans and everyone who had shown support. He also missed the following game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a match Delhi lost by nine wickets. The defeat came after the Capitals were bowled out for just 75 on their home ground.
Delhi Capitals set for Rajasthan Royals test
Delhi now find themselves in Jaipur for their next assignment against Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. Rajasthan are currently fourth on the points table, having won six of their nine games. Delhi, meanwhile, sit in seventh place with three wins from eight matches. With the competition tightening, every remaining encounter becomes increasingly important for Axar Patel’s side, and a win will likely be essential rather than optional.
While that challenge is not an easy one, Ngidi’s return should provide a noticeable boost to Delhi’s balance and bowling options. The 30-year-old has already appeared in six matches this season, taking seven wickets while maintaining an economy rate of 8.70. Considering the high-scoring nature of IPL 2026, those figures stand out.
One of Ngidi’s key strengths is his ability to vary pace, which often makes it difficult for batters to pick the slower deliveries early. In today’s clash, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal will need to be especially alert to the way Ngidi mixes his tempo. Delhi’s difficult stretch began with the head injury, as they lost two matches heavily during his absence. With Ngidi back in the XI, they will be hoping his presence can help change the momentum.
