New Delhi: The 48th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is set to take place on May 5th, with the Delhi Capitals facing off against the Chennai Super Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. A significant boost for the Delhi Capitals comes with the news that star bowler Lungi Ngidi is fully fit and available for selection.
Ngidi suffered a serious head injury on April 25 during a match against Punjab Kings, where he fell backward while attempting to catch the ball, hitting his head on the ground. An ambulance was called to transport him to a hospital for evaluation. Fortunately, he was declared out of immediate danger the following day. However, IPL protocols require a mandatory six-day break for any player with a head injury before returning to play. Ngidi’s recovery and subsequent availability have been confirmed by the team’s bowling coach, Munaf Patel.
His return could enhance the Capitals’ chances as they vie for a playoff spot, with both teams still competing for qualification. The match’s outcome promises to be significant for the standings.
Munaf Patel addressed the media, stating, “Lungi and all bowlers are 100 percent fit. He did not play the last two games because of the six-day criteria, but he is fully fit now.” He also noted the impact of having key bowlers in the lineup: “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.”
