IPL 2026 Mini-AuctionThe tournament, taking place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, is shaping up to be one of the most competitive player markets in recent memory, with 1,355 players in the pool and franchises like KKR and LSG having massive funds to rebuild or improve their squads. Big names available include experienced South African finisher david millerwas issued by Lucknow Super Giants This could be an important target for many franchises after a quiet 2025 season and now looking for a proven middle-order enforcer.
David Miller’s IPL journey: From PBKS to LSG
david millerAffectionately known as “Killer Miller”, he has been a consistent presence since his IPL debut Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) in 2012, where he quickly established himself as a devastating left-handed finisher. In 141 matches across 14 seasons, he has scored 3,077 runs at an average of 35.78 and a strike rate of 138.60, including 1 century and 13 fifties, 138 sixes and 220 fours, making him one of the most dangerous power-hitters in the death overs.
Miller’s IPL career has spanned four franchises: PBKS (2012–2019), Rajasthan Royals (2020–2021), Gujarat Titans (2022-2024), and Lucknow Super Giants (2025). His best season came with GT in 2022, where he scored 481 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 142.72, and was instrumental in their title-winning campaign. In 2025, he scored 153 runs in 11 matches for LSG at an average of 30.60 and 127.50, which was a sub-par return that led to his release, but his experience and finishing ability still make him a valuable asset for any franchise.
5 franchises that can target David Miller in IPL 2026
- Punjab Kings (PBKS)
2025 finalists PBKS have released glen maxwell And josh inglisAn explosive foreigner leaving a clear gap for the middle-order batsman. Miller, who was a mainstay for PBKS between 2012 and 2019, is a natural fit to return as a finisher and provide firepower at the back. Shreyas Iyer And young Indian origin. With only ₹11.50 crore left and two overseas slots, PBKS could target Miller at his base price of ₹2 crore as a cost-effective, high-impact option to boost their batting depth.
- Gujarat Titans (GT)
GT, which won the title in 2022 with Miller as the leading finisher, may consider bringing him back for a second stint. After a strong 2025 season that ended in the Eliminator, GT is expected to strengthen its middle-order and death-hitting options in the mini-auction. Re-signing Miller would give them a proven match-winner familiar with their setup and home conditions, making him a logical target to add experience and firepower to their middle and lower order.
- Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
As defending champions, RCB have a strong top order, but could still benefit from another punchy overseas batsman in the middle or lower order. with liam livingstone With only ₹16.4 crore left to be released and eight slots to be filled, RCB may look for a proven finisher who can bat at Nos. 6-7 and handle pressure situations. Miller’s ability to clear the ropes and play spin well makes him a viable option to add depth and experience to RCB’s batting lineup.
- Rajasthan Royals (RR)
RR, who finished 9th in 2025, are rebuilding around a young Indian core and could use an experienced overseas finisher for support Riyan Parag And Dhruv Jurelwith Faf du Plessis And following the departure of other senior overseas batsmen, RR are expected to target a big-hitting middle-order batsman in the auction. Miller’s finishing skills and ability to accelerate in the death overs make him an ideal candidate to add firepower and stability to RR’s middle order.
- Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR enters the auction with the biggest purse of ₹64.3 crore after its release andre russell And Venkatesh IyerAre in full rebuilding mode and need depth in overseas batting. He is expected to target a powerful overseas middle-order batsman who can also contribute with the ball occasionally. Miller’s experience, finishing ability and familiarity with the conditions at the Eden Gardens makes him a strong candidate for KKR as they look to rebuild a balanced and explosive lineup.
Also read: Cameron Green in, Glenn Maxwell out: 1,355 players register for IPL 2026 auction
