Delhi Capitals fast bowler Lungi Ngidi was left with a serious head injury during their IPL 2026 encounter against Punjab Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Saturday. The South African pacer required immediate medical attention after a nasty fall while attempting to take a catch during Punjab’s run chase.
Injury incident and early response
- The incident occurred in the third over of Punjab Kings’ chase when Priyansh Arya went for a slashing shot at a full-length delivery from Axar Patel, aimed towards the stumps.
- The ball rose high in the direction of mid-off. Ngidi sprinted back to take the catch as the batter’s shot climbed off the bat.
- Ngidi misjudged the opportunity and failed to reach the ball. As he went down, he landed awkwardly and struck the back of his head hard against the ground.
- After the impact, the pacer’s head bounced off the surface as he fell. He immediately showed signs of pain, clutching his head and lying on the field.
- Ngidi rolled to the side and remained motionless for a short period, prompting growing concern among players and members of the support staff.
- Team physiotherapist and the squad doctor rushed in right away and began assessing him on the pitch. Ngidi stayed down for more than a minute while the medical team carried out checks.
- A stretcher was then brought onto the field. The physio was seen speaking to Ngidi while holding his neck, and the fact that he was able to respond offered some reassurance.
- An ambulance was also moved inside the stadium perimeter. Doctors and physiotherapists surrounded Ngidi as a neck brace was positioned carefully beneath his head and around his neck before he was prepared for removal.
- Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting stepped onto the field during the treatment, while Delhi Capitals players appeared visibly worried as the stretcher came out.
The pace and harshness of the venue’s outfield at the Arun Jaitley Stadium added to the concern around the fall. The crowd also grew quiet as spectators recognised the gravity of the injury. With the severity of the impact, it looked unlikely that Ngidi would be able to resume play immediately after being taken off.
Ngidi was subsequently taken to Max Hospital on Pusa Road in Delhi for further medical evaluation.
