IPL 2026 mini-auctionscheduled for 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 holding huge purses to rebuild or refine their squads. Among the big names available is the South African veteran. David Millerwho 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 Milleraffectionately nicknamed ‘Killer Miller’, has been a constant 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. In 141 matches spread over 14 seasons, he has accumulated 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 death overs.
Miller’s IPL career spans 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 with a strike rate of 142.72, playing a crucial role in their title campaign. In 2025, he managed 153 points in 11 games for LSG at 30.60 and 127.50, a subpar output that led to his release, but his experience and finishing ability still make him a valuable asset to any franchise.
5 franchises who can target David Miller in IPL 2026
- Kings of Punjab (PBKS)
PBKS, which reached the 2025 finals, released Glenn Maxwell And Josh Inglisleaving a clear void for an explosive middle-order hitter overseas. Miller, who was a mainstay for PBKS between 2012 and 2019, is a natural choice to return as a finisher and provide firepower behind Shreyas Iyer and the young Indian core. With just ₹11.50 crore remaining and two overseas locations, PBKS can target Miller at a base price of ₹2 crore as a cost-effective, high-impact option to bolster its batting depth.
- Gujarat Titans (GT)
GT, who won the 2022 title with Miller as a key runner-up, could look to bring him back for a second stint. After a strong 2025 season that ended with the Eliminator, GTs are expected to bolster their mid-order and lethal options in the mini-auctions. Re-signing Miller would give them a proven winner familiar with their setup and home conditions, making him a logical target to add experience and firepower to their middle and lower order.
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- Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
As the defending champions, RCB have a strong top order but could always benefit from another impactful foreign hitter in the middle or lower order. With Liam Livingstone released and only ₹16.4 crore left to fill eight slots, RCB can look for a proven finisher who can bat at numbers 6 to 7 and handle pressure situations. Miller’s ability to clear the strings and play well on spin makes him a viable option to add depth and experience to RCB’s batting line-up.
- Rajasthan Royals (RR)
RR, who finished 9th in 2025, are rebuilding around a young Indian core and could use an experienced foreign finisher to support them. Riyan Parag And Dhruv Jurel. With Faf du Plessis and other overseas senior batters let go, RR should target a powerful middle-order batter in the auction. Miller’s finishing skills and ability to accelerate in death overs make him an ideal candidate to add firepower and stability to RR’s middle order.
- Calcutta Knights Riders (KKR)
KKR, entering the auction with the largest purse of ₹64.3 crore after its release Andrew Russell And Venkatesh Iyerare in complete rebuild mode and need some overseas hitting depth. They are expected to target a powerful foreign middle-order hitter who can also contribute with the ball on occasion. Miller’s experience, finishing ability and familiarity with the conditions at Eden Gardens make him a strong candidate for KKR to consider as they look to rebuild a balanced and explosive lineup.
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