Why did Lungi Ngidi miss RR vs DC clash of IPL 2026?
(Courtesy : BCCI/IPL)
Lungi Ngidi also missed DC’s previous match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2026.
After starting their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season with two consecutive wins, the Delhi Capitals (DC) have since lost five matches, and find themselves in seventh place on the points table, with just six points.
For a team of their calibre, they would be highly disappointed. Over the previous two matches, they have lost in contrasting ways, to further mount pressure on the team and management. Against Punjab Kings, DC smashed their highest ever total of 264, yet lost the match with an over to spare.
Then against defending champions RCB, they were bundled out for a mere 75 runs, and lost inside seven overs, significantly damaging their net run-rate. The DC are desperate for a win, and they will run into an in-form Rajasthan Royals (RR) unit, which handed PBKS their first defeat of the season in their previous match.
An exciting clash awaits, as RR is taking on DC at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Hosts captain Riyan Parag chose to bat first, after winning the toss.
Why did Lungi Ngidi miss RR vs DC game of IPL 2026?
Lungi Ngidi had suffered a serious concussion injury during DC’s match against PBKS. While running backwards and attempting a catch, the South African quick dropped the ball and landed awkwardly on his head. He received immediate attention, and was subsequently taken to an hospital from the stadium.
Ngidi has now rejoined the DC squad, and has recovered from the injury scare. He was even seen taking part in the fielding drills alongside his teammates. However, he will still miss the match as a result of ICC’s Return to Play rule.
The law states that if a player is diagnosed with a concussion, he/she must then follow a graduated Return to Play (RTP) protocol. Under the current ICC Medical Guidelines, a player cannot return to competitive play for a minimum of 7 days.
Ngidi is expected to return for DC’s match against CSK on May 5. Despite his absence, the team will be buoyed by the return of Mitchell Starc, who is all set to play his first match of the season.
Why did Lungi Ngidi miss RR vs DC clash of IPL 2026?
Lungi Ngidi missed the match due to a concussion injury sustained in the game against PBKS and is currently following the mandatory ICC Return to Play protocol.
When will Lungi Ngidi return to action for Delhi Capitals?
Ngidi is expected to return for DC’s upcoming match against CSK, subject to completing the minimum 7-day recovery period under ICC guidelines.
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Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.