Lungi Ngidi IPL 2026 DC vs RCB (Source: AP)
Delhi Capitals (DC) will take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi, tonight, Monday, April 27.
Defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are in excellent form, placed second with five wins from seven games. They secured a convincing victory over Gujarat Titans in their previous outing and will look to maintain that momentum.
On the other hand, Axar Patel-led DC currently sit sixth on the points table, with three wins from seven matches. They are coming off a heavy defeat against Punjab Kings and will be eager to bounce back strongly to register their fourth win of the tournament.
Adding to their misery, Delhi Capitals could be forced into a late bowling change ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against RCB, with injured Lungi Ngidi’s availability still hanging in the balance.
That being said, in this article, let's explore whether the Capitals trusted bowler, Lungi Ngidi, plays in the DC vs RCB IPL match today.
What happened to Lungi Ngidi?
30-year-old Lungi Ngidi suffered a massive injury scare during DC’s last outing when he attempted a catch near the boundary. While tracking the ball, he lost balance and landed awkwardly, hitting the back of his head on the turf.
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The incident immediately raised alarms. Play was stopped, medical staff rushed in, and Ngidi was taken off the field after a brief on-ground assessment. It was a moment that left both teammates and fans worried.
Lungi Ngidi injury update
The initial reports since then have been reassuring. Ngidi is said to be stable and under observation, with no major complications detected after medical checks.
However, head injuries are treated with extreme caution in modern cricket. Even if a player feels fine, teams must follow strict concussion protocols before allowing a return. That means Lungi’s recovery is not just about feeling better; it’s about passing multiple fitness and medical assessments.
Will Lungi Ngidi play today's DC vs RCB IPL Match?
While there is no official confirmation ruling him out, Delhi Capitals are unlikely to take a risk this early. A head impact means the medical team will have the final say, and clearance usually comes only after proper monitoring.
As things stand, Ngidi remains doubtful for today’s IPL match against the high-flying RCB. If he doesn’t get the green light before match time, DC will have to look at alternatives.
Who will replace Ngidi in DC playing XI?
The best option to replace injured Lungi Ngidi in DC’s playing 11 against RCB would have undoubtedly been Mitchell Starc. The Aussie pacer is unlikely to play in today’s match.
While Starc has joined the Delhi Capitals camp after receiving clearance from Cricket Australia following a shoulder injury, reports suggest he is being eased into competition and is expected to be available from May 1 onwards.
Thus, the Delhi-based franchise will most likely bring in Sri Lanka’s Dushmantha Chameera. Notably, DC were not allowed to bring him in in the last match versus Punjab Kings, but he will certainly be in the line-up against RCB.
The Capitals will be hoping for positive news soon, but they are expected to take a cautious approach. With a long tournament ahead, rushing a player back from a head injury is rarely worth the risk.
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