Delhi Capitals Count on Starc, Ngidi as Must-Win Phase Begins

The Delhi Capitals (DC) are entering a  phase in the Indian Premier League 2026 season, with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread. Ahead of their clash against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), bowling coach Munaf Patel made it clear: there is no room left for error.

“Now the relaxed mode is over; if you want to qualify, you have to win all the matches,” Munaf said, underlining the urgency surrounding DC’s campaign. The team currently sits seventh on the points table with four wins from nine games.

Starc and Ngidi Boost Bowling Attack

A major positive for DC is the availability of their key pacers, Mitchell Starc and Lungi Ngidi. Starc, who joined the squad late in April, made an immediate impact by picking up three wickets on debut against Rajasthan Royals. Munaf praised his influence, calling him the “captain of the fast bowlers.”

Ngidi, meanwhile, returns after missing two matches due to a head injury sustained against Punjab Kings. Having already taken seven wickets in seven games, his comeback strengthens DC’s pace unit significantly.

“Lungi and all bowlers are 100% fit,” Munaf confirmed. “A wicket in the first six overs makes a big difference. That is why bowling in partnerships becomes very important.”

Searching for the Right Combination

DC have experimented heavily this season, using 20 players and seven overseas options so far. Initially, the team relied more on Indian bowlers like Mukesh Kumar to allow room for overseas batters. However, inconsistent results forced a rethink.

“When a plan does not work, you have to move to plan B,” Munaf admitted.

In recent matches, players like Pathum Nissanka have been given opportunities, while options such as David Miller remain part of the tactical mix depending on team balance. Injury concerns are minimal, with only Sahil Parakh currently sidelined.

Spin Strength Remains Key

Despite the focus on pace, DC’s spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel remains central to their plans, especially at their home ground in Delhi.

Munaf acknowledged that while slower pitches would benefit their spinners, conditions may not be as sluggish as expected. “They might slow down slightly, but not significantly,” he noted.

No Margin for Error

DC have struggled to build momentum this season, never winning more than two matches in a row. As the league stage nears its end, consistency is now critical.

“Confidence always comes from winning. You cannot build confidence by losing matches,” Munaf said. “We have moved on from the previous result. It is better to forget it and move forward with the right mindset.”

With their strongest lineup finally taking shape and key players back in action, Delhi Capitals will hope to string together a series of wins — starting with a crucial encounter against Chennai Super Kings — to keep their playoff dreams alive.