Shamsi backs Lungi Ngidi, calls out lack of recogniation for DC pacer: ‘Can’t judge individuals on team trophies'

This season, Lungi Ngidi has been hogging the spotlight due to his off-cutters, which have become a lethal weapon for DC.

Updated on: Apr 10, 2026, 15:36:32 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Delhi Capitals pacer Lungi Ngidi has been in fine form this season and is currently fourth in the IPL 2026 Purple Cap race with five wickets in three games. Against the Gujarat Titans in DC's latest fixture on Wednesday, Ngidi bowled four overs, took a wicket and conceded only 24 runs at an economy of 6.00.

DC pacer Lungi Ngidi has been in good form this season. (PTI)

This season, Ngidi has been hogging the spotlight due to his off-cutters, which have become a lethal weapon for DC.

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Taking to X, South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi backed Ngidi. When a fan questioned the praise, pointing out that he hasn't won any titles, Shamsi came up with the perfect response.

"Hes an IPL winner with CSK and RCB MANY domestic trophies with the Titans World Test Championship winner too It again proves my point..his accomplishments would be hyped up n not downplayed if he was from another country Also,we cant judge individuals on their team's trophies", he wrote.

In an earlier tweet, Shamsi responded to a fan, who stated Ngidi is currently the second-best T20 bowler in the world and called it an unpopular opinion. Shamsi wrote, "Why unpopular opinion? Players from some other countries get hyped up so quickly He deserves to be up there with the best n actually get the recognition for it @NgidiLungi has ALWAYS taken wickets at regular intervals In ODI cricket too he was up there with Starc but no1 cared."

In the recently concluded T20 World Cup, off-cutters made up 49.3 per cent of Ngidi's deliveries, and it was his most used variation, which saw him get five of his 12 wickets in the tournament. Meanwhile, stock deliveries make up 26.45 per cent of his deliveries at the tournament.

Recently, DC bowling coach Munaf Patel spoke about Ngidi's skill set. "In today's game, good variations are essential to becoming a good bowler," he said.

"Ngidi has strong, slower balls and a good understanding of conditions, especially in India, because he has been playing regularly for South Africa. He has spent time with other teams and has a very good idea of when to use which variation, especially given the conditions. He isn’t like other bowlers who will try to bowl 150 Kph and get hit. He bowls to his strengths and uses variations smartly when required," he added.

Ngidi is known for his pace, bounce and ability to get wickets in key moments. He rose to prominence after impressive displays for his former team, CSK, in the IPL, where he took wickets in both the powerplay and the death overs. Injuries have often hampered his momentum, but he is still a huge asset for South Africa in white-ball cricket.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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