Lungi Ngidi Career

Lungi Ngidi has performed exceptionally well across formats (Instagram)

South African speedster, Lungi Ngidi, known for consistently delivering speeds over 140kph, has established himself as a versatile and crucial player for the South African team. Equally adept at opening bowling or finishing strong at the death, Ngidi has become a regular fixture in the national team across formats.

Ngidi's international debut came in a T20I against Sri Lanka in January 2017, where he earned the Man of the Match title for his impressive 2 for 12. He continued to excel, notably during his Test debut against India, where his 6 for 39 in the fourth innings was instrumental in South Africa's series win. His ODI debut followed, yielding eight wickets in three matches against India.

Notably, Ngidi played a key role in South Africa's clean sweep against Australia, taking six wickets in the second ODI just before the pandemic. His return to Test cricket saw him take seven wickets in two matches against Sri Lanka. He also toured Pakistan and West Indies, and in late 2021, he took eight wickets in Centurion against his recurring opponents, India, showcasing skills and importance to South African cricket. Let’s take a detailed look at the Lungi Ngidi Career.

Early Beginnings

Hometown Roots

Ngidi's journey began in Kloof, Durban, where he was nurtured in a humble family setting. His mother worked as a domestic worker, and his father was a maintenance worker at a local school. This modest background laid the foundation for his strong work ethic and determination.

Educational Leap

Ngidi's cricketing promise earned him a scholarship to Highbury Preparatory School, followed by another to the prestigious Hilton College School. His early years at Hilton were marked by his participation in rugby; however, he soon hung up his rugby boots to concentrate solely on cricket. During his time at Hilton, he was under the guidance of Neil Johnson, a former Zimbabwe all-rounder, who played a crucial role in shaping his cricketing skills.

Academic Pursuit

After his time at Hilton, Ngidi pursued higher education at the University of Pretoria. He chose to study a Bachelor of Social Sciences in Industrial Sociology, balancing his academic interests with his burgeoning cricket career.

Lungi Ngidi Domestic Career

Provincial Debut

His cricket journey began with the Kwa-Zulu Natal Under-19s during the 2014 Khaya Majola week, which led to his recruitment by Northerns for the 2015 Africa T20 Cup. His breakout performance came in the tournament, where he was the joint second-highest wicket-taker. This success led to his inclusion in the Titans, Northerns' franchise team, and he played a huge role in their T20 campaigns, including a title win and a successful defense. Ngidi further refined his skills at the University of Pretoria, where he quickly emerged as a promising T20 player.

Rising Star

By July 2016, Ngidi's talent was undeniable, earning him the title of Africa T20 Cup player of the year by Cricket South Africa. His star continued to rise, and by August 2017, he was picked for Benoni Zalmi's squad in the inaugural T20 Global League. Although the league faced postponements and eventual cancellation, Ngidi's momentum was unstoppable. His growing international reputation was further cemented when he was named in the Tshwane Spartans squad for the 2019 Mzansi Super League.

Continued Domestic Dominance

In April 2021, Ngidi returned to his roots, joining Northerns' squad for the 2021–22 cricket season in South Africa. His commitment to domestic cricket remained strong even as his international career flourished.

A New Chapter in the USA

In a significant move in May 2023, Ngidi took his talents to the United States, joining the San Francisco Unicorns for the inaugural season of Major League Cricket (MLC).

Lungi Ngidi First Class Stats

Lungi Ngidi List A Stats

Lungi Ngidi Test Career

Debut to Remember

Ngidi's foray into Test cricket commenced in January 2018, a defining moment in his flourishing career. Chosen for the South African Test team against India, his debut was nothing short of remarkable. At Centurion, Ngidi's skills shone brightly, culminating in an impressive 7/87 match figure, highlighted by an extraordinary 6/39 in the second innings.

A Match-Winning Performance

Ngidi's debut was a game-changer in South Africa's 135-run triumph, earning him the 'Player of the Match' award. His expertise in utilizing local pitch conditions along with his pace and bounce, rapidly propelled him to the forefront as a significant addition to South Africa's Test bowling ranks.

Consistency Amidst Adversity

Ngidi's journey in Test cricket has been a mixture of steady achievements and occasional hurdles, particularly injuries. However, he has remained a steadfast presence in the South African Test side, showcasing resilience and skill.

A Strong Comeback

His return to Test cricket after a gap of more than a year saw him take seven wickets in two matches against Sri Lanka. He also toured Pakistan and West Indies, and in late 2021, he took eight wickets in Centurion against India.

In December 2023, after missing the first Test match against India, Ngidi returned with a bang in the second Test at Newlands. With India going strong at India's 153/4 in response to South Africa’s 55/10, he remarkably took three wickets in a single over, initiating a dramatic batting collapse. Although India eventually clinched the match, Ngidi's performance marked a solid return to Test cricket.

Valued Team Member

Ngidi's ability to dismantle key partnerships and his adaptability across various playing conditions have cemented his status as a vital contributor to the South African team. His youthful energy and growing expertise continue to bolster South Africa's Test squad, highlighting his role as a pivotal player in the team's ongoing success.

Lungi Ngidi Test Stats

Lungi Ngidi ODI Career

Embarking on the ODI Path

Ngidi's entry into the ODI scene came on the heels of his impressive Test debut, marking his ODI debut against India on February 7, 2018. Initially, in the shadow of his Test performances, Ngidi soon made a name for himself in the ODI format. In his debut series against India, he picked eight wickets in three matches. His skill in bowling at different junctures of an innings, combined with a masterful execution of yorkers and pace variations, quickly established him as a dynamic force in South Africa's ODI bowling brigade.

Reaching New Heights

Ngidi's ODI career witnessed a significant milestone on March 4, 2020, during a match against Australia. Here, he bagged his inaugural five-wicket haul in ODIs, simultaneously setting a new benchmark as the quickest South African bowler to amass 50 ODI wickets - a feat he accomplished in a mere 26 matches. This achievement not only highlighted his skills in the shorter format but also highlighted his remarkable efficiency and impact in limited-overs cricket.

Crucial Contributor in Major Tournaments

In high-stakes competitions like the ICC World Cup 2019 and ICC World Cup 2023, Ngidi's role was more than just a bowler; he emerged as a lynchpin for the team. With seven wickets in four matches in the 2019 edition and an impressive haul of 10 wickets in eight matches in the 2023 tournament, Ngidi proved to be a cornerstone in many of South Africa's ODI wins. His ability to turn the tide in crucial moments, often 'stealing thunder' from the opposition, has been instrumental in shaping the team's fortunes in these global showcases.

Lungi Ngidi ODI Stats

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Lungi Ngidi T20I Career

Spectacular Debut

Ngidi's journey in T20 Internationals (T20Is) kicked off with a remarkable debut against Sri Lanka in January 2017. He immediately grabbed the spotlight, an unusual feat for a newcomer, by securing the Man of the Match award. His impressive figures of 2/12 in just two overs signalled his natural affinity for the shortest format of the game, where his blistering pace and knack for delivering effective yorkers and bouncers shine.

Consistently Impressive Performances

Ngidi's trajectory in T20Is is dotted with significant performances. A key highlight came in July 2022 against England when he achieved his first five-wicket haul in T20Is. This performance not only underlined his skill but also his adaptability to the evolving demands of T20 cricket.

Adapting to Game Demands

Ngidi has demonstrated an impressive ability to adjust his game to suit the T20 format, often bowling during the most challenging phases of a match. His evolution in T20Is is marked by consistent growth, showcasing his increasing mastery over the nuances of this fast-paced format.

Pillar in the South African Squad

Over time, Ngidi's role within the South African T20 squad has burgeoned. He emerged as a key player, especially highlighted during his participation in the ICC T20 World Cup 2021. His presence in the team along with his ability to dismantle batting line-ups, makes him an invaluable asset to the South African T20 side.

Lungi Ngidi T20I Stats

Lungi Ngidi IPL Career

Debut and Early Impact with CSK

Ngidi's venture into the IPL commenced in January 2018 when Chennai Super Kings (CSK) secured him in the IPL auction. This opportunity opened a new chapter in his career, placing him on one of cricket's grandest platforms.

Ngidi's inaugural IPL season in 2018 was nothing short of remarkable. In seven matches, he showcased his bowling skills, claiming 11 wickets at an impressive average of 14.18. His economy rate of 6.00 was particularly noteworthy, reflecting his skill in run restriction. Ngidi played a key role in several matches, significantly bolstering CSK's performance that season.

Facing Challenges and Continuing Contributions

Setback and Return: The 2019 IPL season saw Ngidi facing a setback, as he missed the entire season. Making a comeback in 2020, he continued to represent CSK, securing 9 wickets throughout the tournament. While his performance didn't match the heights of his debut season, it showed his consistent contribution to the team's bowling strength. In the 2021 season, Ngidi's tally dropped to 5 wickets, yet he remained a crucial part of the CSK bowling unit.

Transition to a New Team

Ngidi's IPL journey took a turn in February 2022 when he was picked by Delhi Capitals, offering him a fresh platform to exhibit his cricketing skills. However, the 2022 season unfolded unexpectedly for Ngidi, as he didn't play a single match for the franchise.

Continued Non-Participation and Future Prospects

This unforeseen development extended into the 2023 IPL season. Despite being retained by Delhi Capitals, Ngidi did not appear in any matches. The reasons behind Ngidi's absence from the playing field over these two seasons might be linked to strategic team decisions or specific team dynamics. However, his retention for the 2024 season signalled the franchise's confidence in his potential value to the team.

Lungi Ngidi IPL Stats

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lungi Ngidi Career

Q.1. When did Lungi Ngidi make his international debut?

Answer: Lungi Ngidi made his international debut in a T20I match against Sri Lanka in January 2017, where he was named the Man of the Match.

Q.2. What are Lungi Ngidi's best figures in Test cricket?

Answer: Lungi Ngidi’s best figures came during his Test debut against India in 2018, where he took 6/39 in the second innings, leading South Africa to a victory.

Q.3. Which IPL teams have Lungi Ngidi played for?

Answer: Lungi Ngidi started his IPL career with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2018. Later, he joined Delhi Capitals in 2022 but did not play any matches for them in the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

Q.4. What are Lungi Ngidi's strengths as a bowler?

Answer: Lungi Ngidi's strengths include his pace, the ability to generate bounce, and his skill in bowling accurate yorkers and bouncers. He's also adaptable to different playing conditions and phases of the game.

Q.5. How has Lungi Ngidi performed in ICC World Cups?

Answer: In the ICC World Cup 2019, Lungi Ngidi picked up seven wickets in four matches, and in the 2023 World Cup, he claimed 10 wickets in eight matches

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