Delhi Capitals' Lungi Ngidi Fully Recovered Ahead of Crucial IPL Match

Delhi Capitals' bowling coach Munaf Patel has confirmed that Lungi Ngidi is fully fit after recovering from a neck injury and concussion. As the team prepares for a crucial IPL match against Chennai Super Kings, Patel emphasizes the need for victories to secure a playoff spot. With recent performances showing promise, DC aims to build on their momentum. Read on to find out more about Ngidi's recovery and the team's strategy moving forward.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 5, 2026, 02:26 IST

Lungi Ngidi Returns to Full Fitness

New Delhi, May 4: Munaf Patel, the bowling coach for Delhi Capitals (DC), announced on Monday that fast bowler Lungi Ngidi is now "100% fit" after recovering from a neck injury and concussion sustained during a match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 25.

Ngidi had to be taken off the field on a stretcher and was hospitalized following a fall while trying to catch a lofted shot. During the third over of PBKS's innings, bowled by Axar Patel, Ngidi attempted to catch a ball hit by Priyansh Arya.

While back-pedaling to track the ball, he lost control and fell heavily on his head, leading to a significant delay in the game as the medical team attended to him. Vipraj Nigam was brought in as a concussion substitute during this time.

Speaking to the media ahead of DC's important IPL match against the five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Patel confirmed, "All bowlers are fit, including Lungi Ngidi."

Patel emphasized the necessity for the team to win all their remaining matches to keep their playoff hopes alive. He highlighted the critical nature of securing early wickets during the powerplay, stating that even the largest targets can be chased down if early breakthroughs are not achieved.

"We have no option but to win. To qualify for the playoffs, we must win every match. The biggest totals can be chased if wickets aren't taken in the powerplays. Having a key bowler makes a significant difference," he remarked.

He also noted, "Confidence comes only with victories. You cannot gain confidence through losses. We have one of the best spinners, and we don't expect many changes in the pitch conditions."

Recently, DC broke their three-match losing streak with a remarkable chase of 226 runs against Rajasthan Royals. However, they faced defeat against CSK in their earlier encounter this season, where CSK successfully defended a total of 212 runs.

Currently, Chennai Super Kings are positioned sixth in the IPL standings with four wins from nine matches, while Delhi Capitals are just behind in seventh place, also with four victories from nine games.