IPL 2026 [WATCH]: Lungi Ngidi resumes training with DC after recovering from a serious head injury ahead of RR clash

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 moves to the picturesque Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur today, for a high-stakes encounter. The 43rd match of the season features the high-flying Rajasthan Royals (RR) hosting a struggling Delhi Capitals (DC) side. While the focus remains on the points table, the biggest talking point in the DC camp is the return of their pace spearhead, Lungi Ngidi, to the practice nets following a terrifying on-field accident.

Lungi Ngidi returns to Delhi Capitals camp post head injury ahead of RR game

The South African pacer’s season took a dark turn during DC’s recent clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS). While backpedalling from mid-off to pouch a high catch from opener Priyansh Arya, Ngidi lost his footing on the hard Arun Jaitley Stadium turf. The impact was violent; he fell backwards, hitting his head against the ground with enough force to cause an immediate, sickening thud. Ngidi was seen clutching the back of his head in immense pain, unable to move as silence fell over the stadium.

The medical response was swift. Play was halted for over 10 minutes as physios and doctors stabilized Ngidi’s neck and head with a brace. The sight of an ambulance driving onto the field and Ngidi being stretchered off left teammates like Tristan Stubbs and David Miller visibly shaken. After being rushed to Max Hospital for emergency scans, the cricket community breathed a sigh of relief when he was discharged the same evening with no long-term neurological damage.

In a heartwarming video shared by the franchise today, the energy in the DC camp seems rejuvenated. New Zealand pacer Kyle Jamieson is heard excitedly shouting, “Ngidi is back, back again!” as the clip shows the Proteas star steaming in at full intensity. Ngidi was seen shattering the stumps and celebrating with his trademark smile, signalling a successful recovery.

However, despite his return to training, Ngidi will sit out the match against Rajasthan Royals. According to reports from Cricbuzz, DC is adhering to the ICC’s mandatory seven-day stand-down period for concussion-related injuries. While IPL playing conditions are often flexible, the franchise is prioritizing athlete safety, meaning Ngidi’s official return to the XI might have to wait until their next fixture.

Here’s the video:

Ladies & gentlemen…. Lungi Ngidi!! 💥🥁 pic.twitter.com/LrFO2qQrPq

— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) April 30, 2026

Also WATCH: Lungi Ngidi rushed to hospital after frightening head injury during DC vs PBKS IPL 2026 clash

Ngidi’s ecstatic bowling rhythm in IPL 2026 for Delhi Capitals

Ngidi’s absence is a massive blow for Delhi, who currently sit 7th on the points table with only six points. He has been the undisputed leader of their attack, providing breakthroughs at crucial junctures. His rhythm this season has been nothing short of ecstatic, blending raw pace with deceptive slower balls.

With 7 wickets in 6 innings at an average of 29.42, Ngidi’s ability to strike in the powerplay has been DC’s saving grace. As Delhi look to snap their losing streak in Jaipur, they will have to find a way to replicate Ngidi’s intensity without the man himself leading the huddle.

Also READ: Lungi Ngidi shares first reaction after scary injury during DC vs PBKS IPL 2026 clash