South African fast bowler Lungisani Ngidi, known for his sharp bounce, extra pace, and wicket-taking ability, is set for a new chapter in the Indian Premier League. After several seasons of fluctuating opportunities, Ngidi was bought by Delhi Capitals (DC) for ₹2 crore at the IPL 2026 Auction, signaling renewed faith in his experience and skill.
Despite limited appearances in the last few years, Ngidi’s career graph shows that he remains a genuine strike bowler capable of breaking partnerships and delivering impact spells. His IPL journey across CSK, RCB, and now DC shows a bowler who is still valued highly for his raw pace and match-winning potential.
Lungi Ngidi IPL 2026 Price & Team
DC Secure Ngidi for ₹2 Crore
Delhi Capitals added Ngidi to their pace group for IPL 2026, paying ₹2 crore at the auction. His ability to provide early breakthroughs and bowl strong middle-overs makes him a valuable asset.
| IPL 2026 Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Team | Delhi Capitals (DC) |
| Auction Price | ₹2.00 Crore |
| Role | Fast Bowler |
| Nationality | South Africa |
| Bowling Style | Right-arm Fast |
Read more: IPL 2026 Released Players List
Why DC Targeted Ngidi
DC lacked an experienced overseas pacer who could adapt quickly to subcontinental conditions. Ngidi brings:
- International experience across formats
- A proven wicket-taking record
- Ability to bowl at 140+ km/h
- Strong performance in crunch stages
- Strike rate under 13 balls per wicket in IPL career
His best IPL spell of 4/10 still stands as one of the most impactful spells by a foreign pacer.
Lungi Ngidi IPL Career Overview
Ngidi debuted in the IPL in 2018 and left an immediate mark. Over the years, he has played for:
- Chennai Super Kings (2018–2021)
- Delhi Capitals (2022–2024)
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (2025)
- Delhi Capitals again in 2026
Despite limited matches, his bowling strike rate and ability to pick wickets in clusters make him a consistent performer.
Lungi Ngidi IPL Career Stats (Batting & Fielding)
Batting & Fielding Stats
| Season | Mat | Runs | HS | Avg | SR | 4s | 6s | Catches |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2 | 0 | 0* | – | 0.00 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2021 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| 2020 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2018 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Career | 16 | 0 | 0 | – | 0.00 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Ngidi’s batting has almost no impact role, as he is purely a bowling specialist.
Lungi Ngidi IPL Bowling Stats
Season-wise Bowling Performance
| Season | Mat | Balls | Runs | Wickets | Best | Avg | Economy | SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2 | 48 | 81 | 4 | 3/30 | 20.25 | 10.13 | 12.00 |
| 2021 | 3 | 72 | 125 | 5 | – | 25.00 | 10.41 | 14.40 |
| 2020 | 4 | 96 | 167 | 9 | – | 18.55 | 10.43 | 10.66 |
| 2018 | 7 | 156 | 156 | 11 | 4/10 | 14.18 | 6.00 | 14.18 |
| Career | 16 | 372 | 529 | 29 | 4/10 | 18.24 | 8.53 | 12.83 |
Key Highlights
- Best IPL spell: 4/10 (2018)
- IPL Career Strike Rate: 12.83 balls per wicket
- Consistent wicket-taker across all seasons played
- Notable performance in 2025: 3/30 vs CSK
Lungi Ngidi’s Last 10 IPL Bowling Performances
| Match | Figures |
|---|---|
| vs SRH | 1/51 |
| vs CSK | 3/30 |
| vs MI | 0/62 |
| vs CSK | 2/35 |
| vs KKR | 3/28 |
| vs CSK | 3/39 |
| vs CSK | 2/34 |
| vs RR | 1/56 |
| vs MI | 3/38 |
| Final vs CSK | 0/26 |
These performances show Ngidi’s ability to strike regularly, especially in pressure games.
Lungi Ngidi’s Overall Cricketing Profile
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lungisani Ngidi |
| Born | 29 March 1996 |
| Age | 29 |
| Nationality | South Africa |
| Role | Fast Bowler |
| Height | Known for tall frame & bounce |
| Bowling Style | Right-arm Fast |
What Ngidi Brings to Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026
Strengths
- Swing with the new ball
- Back-of-length bounce due to his height
- Death overs capability
- Useful in powerplay breakthroughs
- Experience in big-match environments
Read Also:- IPL Purple Cap Winners List (2008 to 2025)
Team Fit
DC can use Ngidi alongside Indian pacers, giving them a balanced attack. His ability to deliver impact in short spells fits modern T20 tactics.
Conclusion
Lungisani Ngidi’s return to the IPL spotlight with a ₹2 crore contract at Delhi Capitals sets the stage for an exciting 2026 season. His proven strike rate, past match-winning spells, and experience in global cricket make him a valuable addition to DC’s bowling group. If utilized well, Ngidi can be one of the standout overseas pacers of the season.
