New Delhi: Delhi Capitals pacer Lungi Ngidi is currently stable and expected to be discharged soon after sustaining a head injury during his team’s IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings on Saturday. The South African fast bowler was rushed to a nearby hospital after he struck the back of his head on the ground while attempting a catch during the match.
Ngidi was taken off the field in an ambulance and admitted to BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital in New Delhi, where doctors carried out immediate medical checks. According to IPL officials, the 30-year-old complained of headache and neck pain following the incident but remained conscious and responsive.
CT Scan Normal, Player Under Observation
Medical reports have brought relief to the team and fans, as Ngidi’s CT scan results came back normal. Doctors are continuing to monitor his condition, and he is currently being evaluated by a neurosurgeon.
Sources familiar with the situation said that if all parameters remain normal, the fast bowler will likely be discharged shortly. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals brought in Vipraj Nigam as a concussion substitute after Ngidi was taken off the field.
In an official update, IPL authorities confirmed that Ngidi was stable and recovering under medical supervision.
Injury Occurred During Catch Attempt In Second Over
The injury took place early in the match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium during Punjab Kings’ innings.
Ngidi was attempting to take a catch off a delivery bowled by Delhi Capitals spinner Axar Patel. Punjab Kings opener Priyansh Arya had mistimed the shot, sending the ball high into the air.
While trying to judge the trajectory of the ball mid-air, Ngidi miscalculated the catch and landed awkwardly. The back of his head struck the ground forcefully, leaving him in visible pain. He immediately held his head as medical staff rushed onto the field.
Players from both teams gathered around as the medical team assessed his condition. South African teammates Tristan Stubbs and David Miller, along with Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting and Delhi Capitals head coach Hemang Badani, were seen checking on him.
Ngidi was then placed on a stretcher and transported to the waiting ambulance for further medical attention.
Delhi Traffic Police Created Green Corridor For Emergency Transfer
In a swift response to the emergency, the Delhi Traffic Police created a green corridor to allow the ambulance carrying Ngidi to reach the hospital without delays.
Officials said they received information about the medical emergency during peak traffic hours and immediately coordinated with match organisers and the Police Control Room.
Traffic personnel cleared the route and ensured uninterrupted movement of the ambulance, enabling it to reach BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital in just 11 minutes, significantly reducing travel time amid heavy congestion.
Authorities later confirmed that coordinated efforts across departments ensured the player received timely medical care.
Relief For Team And Fans After Scary Incident
Although the fall appeared severe and caused concern among players and spectators, early medical reports indicating normal scan results have provided reassurance.
Head injuries remain a serious concern in cricket, especially during fielding efforts that require players to dive or jump at high speed. Ngidi’s quick medical evaluation and emergency transfer helped prevent complications and ensured proper care.
Team management and medical staff are expected to continue monitoring his recovery before making a decision about his availability for upcoming matches.