Lungi Ngidi, currently playing against India in the ODI series, could be one of the most sought-after fast bowlers in the IPL 2026 auction. The Proteas speedster has so far played 16 IPL matches, taking 29 wickets. Ngidi was a part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru during IPL 2025, but he played only two games as a backup for Josh Hazlewood, picking up four wickets.

 

Owing to limited opportunities, RCB has already released Ngidi ahead of the IPL 2026 auctions. Known for his ability to take wickets anywhere, several teams may get after him to strengthen their pace attack.

 

3 Teams That Might Target Lungi Ngidi in IPL 2026 Mini-Auction

 

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

 

Kolkata Knight Riders may be keen on Ngidi if he comes into the auction. KKR struggled with their pacers in the previous edition. With Mitchell Starc opting to go to Delhi Capitals before IPL 2025, KKR did not have any experienced fast bowlers.

 

Ahead of the mini-auction, Spencer Johnson was released, and Anrich Nortje missed most matches due to injuries and has also been released. Their ace all-rounder, Andre Russell, who used to bowl crucial spells for the side, has retired. Though young bowlers such as Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora did well in the pasty, KKR might want an experienced pacer like Ngidi for consistency in the 2026 season.

 

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Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

 

Chennai Super Kings could also bid for Ngidi as he has been a part of the team in the past and knows the environment of the five-time champions.

 

The franchise has made some surprising moves this season, like trading Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to RR to get Sanju Samson. They have also released Kamlesh Nagarkoti, and Matheesha Pathirana. Considering that CSK has still retained Nathan Ellis, Mukesh Choudhary, and Anshul Kamboj, they might look for Ngidi just to add experience and a bit of balance into their team.

 

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

 

Lucknow Super Giants could be another potential suitor for Ngidi. LSG struggled with injury issues in the previous season, and although they have Mohammed Shami, they did let go of experienced bowlers like Shardul Thakur and Akash Deep.

 

Many of their pacers missed the season or joined late, leaving them with limited fast-bowling options. Ngidi's height and ability to hit the deck hard could make him an ideal addition, especially if the Lucknow pitches assist fast bowlers. Ngidi might be an IPL 2026 inclusion to help any team aiming for a stronger pace, including an experienced wicket-taker who can perform in pressure situations.