How a CSK legend helped this South Africa pacer rattle Team India in T20 World Cup Super 8s
Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESKFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lungi Ngidi's journey as a T20 bowler took a significant turn during his stint with the Chennai Super Kings in the 2018 IPL. Despite limited game time, Ngidi dedicated himself to perfecting his slower deliveries under the guidance of Dwayne Bravo. This focused practice became a cornerstone of his bowling arsenal, enabling him to outsmart Indian batsmen during South Africa's match against India in the T20 World Cup Super 8s.
Ngidi's ability to vary his pace and delivery proved crucial against India. By frequently switching between wide yorkers and cutters, he kept Suryakumar Yadav guessing, ultimately contributing to South Africa's win. Ngidi emphasized that mastering these slower balls required patience and a strategic approach, allowing him to build pressure on the opposition rather than focusing solely on taking wickets.
The key to Ngidi's success lies in his ability to stay under the radar. By avoiding attention, he can deploy his variations effectively, leaving batsmen uncertain about his next move. His focus on creating doubt and applying pressure has given him a competitive edge in modern T20 cricket, where unpredictability is highly valued.
Ngidi's story highlights the importance of adaptability and precision in elite sports. His journey from IPL training to international success underscores how deliberate practice and strategic thinking can elevate an athlete's performance. For readers interested in global cricket, Ngidi's approach offers insights into the evolving strategies within T20 bowling, where maintaining unpredictability is key to success.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/23/2026