IPL 2026 mini‑auction, set for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, is shaping up as one of the most competitive player markets in recent memory, with 1,355 players in the pool and franchises like KKR and LSG holding massive purses to rebuild or fine‑tune their squads. Among the big names available is veteran South African finisher David Miller, who was released by Lucknow Super Giants after a quiet 2025 season and could now be a key target for several franchises looking for a proven middle‑order enforcer.
David Miller’s IPL journey: From PBKS to LSG
David Miller, affectionately known as “Killer Miller,” has been a consistent presence in the IPL since his debut for Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) in 2012, where he quickly established himself as a destructive left‑handed finisher. Over 141 matches across 14 seasons, he has amassed 3,077 runs at an average of 35.78 and a strike rate of 138.60, with 1 century and 13 fifties, along with 138 sixes and 220 fours, making him one of the most feared 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 in 2022 with GT, where he scored 481 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 142.72, playing a crucial role in their title‑winning campaign. In 2025, he managed 153 runs in 11 games for LSG at 30.60 and 127.50, a below‑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)
PBKS, who reached the 2025 final, have released Glenn Maxwell and Josh Inglis, leaving a clear gap for an explosive overseas middle‑order batter. Miller, who was a mainstay for PBKS between 2012 and 2019, is a natural fit to return as a finisher and provide firepower behind Shreyas Iyer and the young Indian core. With only ₹11.50 crore left and two overseas slots, PBKS can target Miller at a base price of ₹2 crore as a cost‑effective, high‑impact option to bolster their batting depth.
- Gujarat Titans (GT)
GT, who won the title in 2022 with Miller as a key finisher, could look to bring him back for a second stint. After a strong 2025 season that ended in the Eliminator, GT are expected to strengthen their 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 Bengaluru (RCB)
As defending champions, RCB have a strong top order but could still benefit from another hard‑hitting overseas batter in the middle or lower order. With Liam Livingstone released and only ₹16.4 crore left to fill eight slots, RCB may look for a proven finisher who can bat at No. 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 to support Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel. With Faf du Plessis and other senior overseas batters let go, RR are expected to target a big‑hitting middle‑order batter 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, entering the auction with the biggest purse of ₹64.3 crore after releasing Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer, are in full rebuild mode and need overseas batting depth. They are expected to target a powerful overseas middle‑order batter who can also contribute with the ball occasionally. Miller’s experience, finishing ability, and familiarity with Eden Gardens’ conditions make him a strong candidate for KKR to consider as they look to rebuild a balanced and explosive lineup.
