Kamal Ghorui
Delhi Capitals did not have much time to recover after their heavy defeat to Punjab Kings as they prepare 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 scoring 264, as PBKS completed the highest successful run chase in IPL history. The result has left DC under pressure in the playoff race.They are currently sixth on the points table, and another defeat could make their road to the playoffs much harder.So far this season, Delhi’s batting has been strong, but their bowling has been inconsistent.The top order, led by KL Rahul, has given the team quick starts in many matches. Nitish Rana and David Miller have also helped keep the scoring rate up in the middle overs.But the bigger concern is with the bowling unit, especially after failing to defend 264 against Punjab Kings.Delhi are expected to make changes in their bowling attack for the match against RCB.Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi is unlikely to play after the head injury he suffered in the previous game against Punjab Kings.Ngidi was taken off the field in an ambulance after falling badly while trying to take a catch. He is now stable and has been discharged from the hospital.
Will Starc play today?
Another setback for Delhi is the absence of Mitchell Starc.Starc has already joined the Delhi Capitals squad, but he is not available for selection yet and will only be available from the start of May.Among the reserves, Kyle Jamieson and Dushmantha Chameera remain the like-for-like replacement options for Lungi Ngidi.Delhi now enter an important stage of the season where they cannot afford more mistakes. For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, this is also a big chance.RCB will look to settle scores from the reverse fixture and strengthen their position in the race for a top-two finish.
