Lungi Ngidi Suffers Head Injury, Stretchered Off During IPL Clash in Delhi

New Delhi, April 2026 : A tense and emotional moment unfolded during the IPL 2026 clash between the Delhi Capitals and the Punjab Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium after fast bowler Lungi Ngidi suffered a serious head injury while attempting a catch.

The incident occurred in the third over of Punjab’s innings when opener Priyansh Arya tried to loft a delivery from Axar Patel over the mid-off region. Ngidi, positioned in the field, sprinted backward in an attempt to complete the catch. However, he appeared to misjudge the trajectory of the ball and lost balance, falling heavily onto the ground.

In the fall, Ngidi struck the back of his head with significant force, immediately raising concerns among players and spectators. He remained on the ground in visible pain, prompting an immediate halt in play as medical staff rushed onto the field.

The seriousness of the situation became evident as the Delhi Capitals’ physio and team doctor attended to him for several minutes. The stadium fell into silence, with players from both sides watching anxiously. Teammates David Miller and Tristan Stubbs appeared visibly shaken, while support staff signalled urgently for additional medical assistance.

A stretcher was soon brought onto the field, and a neck brace was carefully positioned to stabilise Ngidi’s head and spine. Although the pacer was conscious and able to communicate through hand gestures, he showed limited movement in his neck, heightening fears of a serious injury.

The situation grew more intense when an ambulance was driven onto the ground to facilitate his swift evacuation. Players and officials formed a protective circle around Ngidi as medical personnel worked to safely secure him onto the stretcher.

In a gesture of concern and sportsmanship, Ricky Ponting, head coach of Punjab Kings, walked onto the field to check on the injured player.

Ngidi was eventually stretchered into the ambulance and taken off the field for immediate medical attention. According to initial reports, he was transported to a nearby hospital in Karol Bagh for further evaluation and treatment.

Following the incident, play was halted for nearly 15 minutes before resuming. As per concussion protocols, Vipraj Nigam was introduced as a substitute for Ngidi for the remainder of the match.

The incident cast a shadow over the high-profile encounter, reminding everyone of the physical risks involved in the sport. Fans, teammates, and officials alike will be hoping for Ngidi’s speedy and full recovery after what appeared to be a serious and distressing injury.