South African pacer Lungi Ngidi suffered a frightening head injury during Delhi Capitals’ clash against Punjab Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday.
Attempting a catch near the boundary, Ngidi fell awkwardly and landed heavily on the back of his head, prompting immediate concern from teammates and officials.
Play was halted for nearly 15 minutes as medical staff rushed to the field. Ngidi was treated on the ground, fitted with a neck brace, and stretchered off. An ambulance entered the stadium to transport him for further assessment. The atmosphere turned tense, with players and fans visibly shaken. Sections of the crowd were seen praying for his recovery.
In line with IPL concussion protocols, Delhi Capitals invoked the substitute rule. Sri Lankan pacer Dushmantha Chameera was brought in as a like-for-like replacement. The regulation allows a team to replace a player diagnosed or suspected of a concussion, subject to approval by the match referee.
While Ngidi’s condition will be closely monitored, the Capitals will hope for his speedy recovery as the tournament progresses.
