Will Lungi Ngidi play in DC vs CSK IPL 2026 match? Coach provides big update

Delhi Capitals bowling coach Munaf Patel said on Monday that Lungi Ngidi is ready to return after recovering from the head injury he suffered during a home match against Punjab Kings on April 25.

Ngidi had to be taken off the field on a stretcher and was hospitalised after the incident. It happened in the third over of Punjab Kings’ innings, bowled by Axar Patel, when Ngidi tried to take a catch off a shot by Priyansh Arya.

He moved back while tracking the ball but was not in full control. He stretched to reach it but could not get a touch, and fell on his head. The game was stopped for more than 10 minutes, and Vipraj Nigam came in as a concussion substitute.

"Everyone is fit. Lungi is fit. He didn't play two games because of the criterion of six days' rest," said Munaf before the match against Chennai Super Kings.

Ngidi’s return will strengthen the bowling unit. Mitchell Starc has also joined the squad and played his first match of the season against Rajasthan Royals.

In the game against Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals were unable to defend a total of 264, which turned into a record chase.

Munaf said Starc’s presence will help the team.

"When there is a wicket-taking bowler in the PowerPlay, the whole scenario changes. 220 or 230 is being chased because you are not able to take wickets in the PowerPlay.

"When the main bowler is there and takes a few wickets in the PowerPlay, it makes a big difference. Bowling in partnerships was missing, but that has been added now," he said.

Speaking about David Miller not being part of the playing XI in the previous match, Munaf explained the team’s selection.

"You can only fit in four foreigners in the XI. Sahil was injured, so we needed an opener and we thought of giving Pathum another chance. We had to play two overseas fast bowlers. So only one between Pathum and Miller could play. We went with Pathum because an opener was required."