Delhi Capitals' star overseas prospect Lungi Ngidi suffered a major injury scare in their Indian Premier League (IPL) game against the Punjab Kings on Saturday, April 25, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where he fell on his head while attempting a catch.
Fans and those present at the ground were left worried as he remained motionless for a brief moment, prompting officials to bring an ambulance onto the field and rush the South African pacer to the hospital immediately.
Following the incident, Ngidi was recovering, and there was uncertainty about his return as he missed DC's April 27 game against the RCB. But ahead of Delhi's today's game against RR, the speedster resumed his bowling and was seen sweating it out in the nets. However, despite all this, there is still a question mark over his return tonight under this IPL concussion rule.
Question looms on Lungi Ngidi's return
As per the Indian Premier League (IPL) concussion protocol, a player ruled out due to a concussion must stay away from cricketing activities for at least a week. Since that period has not yet been completed as of May 1, Ngidi is unlikely to feature in today’s game.
The 30-year-old was secured by DC ahead of the 2026 season for 2 crore. He has played seven games so far this season, bowling nearly 24 overs, taking seven wickets at an average of 29.43 with an economy of 8.75.
Who'll replace Ngidi
In Lungi Ngidi's absence, fans could witness Aussie speedster Mitchell Starc making his IPL 2026 debut. The 36-year-old was signed by Delhi Capitals for ₹11.75 crore in the 2025 mega auction and lived up to expectations, picking up 14 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 26.14, albeit with an economy rate above 10. He also registered a five-wicket haul during the season.
In today’s clash, DC could look to rely on his experience, yorkers, and ability to generate swing—especially against Vaibhav Sooryavanshi of the Rajasthan Royals, the 15 year old prodigy who has been in explosive form, striking at over 238 and currently sitting third in the Orange Cap race.