Delhi Capitals will have little time to recover from their heavy defeat to Punjab Kings as they gear up to face defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their next IPL 2026 match on Monday.
Delhi lost by six wickets to Punjab Kings despite posting a massive total of 264, as PBKS completed the highest successful run chase in IPL history. The result has put Delhi under significant pressure in the playoff race.
Currently sitting sixth on the points table, another loss could make their path to the playoffs considerably more difficult.
This season, Delhi's batting has been a strong point, but their bowling has lacked consistency. The top order, led by KL Rahul, has provided quick starts in many matches. Nitish Rana and David Miller have also contributed to maintaining a high scoring rate in the middle overs.
However, the bowling unit is a major concern, especially after failing to defend 264 against Punjab Kings. Delhi are expected to make changes to their bowling attack for the match against RCB.
Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi is unlikely to play after suffering a head injury in the previous game against Punjab Kings. Ngidi was taken off the field in an ambulance after falling awkwardly while attempting a catch. He is now stable and has been discharged from the hospital.
Another setback for Delhi is the absence of Mitchell Starc. Starc has joined the Delhi Capitals squad but is not yet available for selection and will only be available from the start of May.
Among the reserves, Kyle Jamieson and Dushmantha Chameera are the like-for-like replacement options for Lungi Ngidi.
Delhi now enter a crucial phase of the season where they cannot afford further mistakes. For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, this is also a significant opportunity. RCB will aim to settle scores from the reverse fixture and strengthen their position in the race for a top-two finish.
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