3 teams who should target David Miller in IPL 2026 Auction ft. Gujarat Titans

David Miller is set to be one of the most talked-about names in the IPL 2026 auction. The South African power-hitter was released by Lucknow Super Giants after a lukewarm 2025 campaign, where he managed 153 runs in 11 games, well below the standard he has set over the years.

Despite a disappointing season, Miller’s credentials remain unquestionable. With over 3,000 IPL runs, a strike-rate close to 140, and a reputation as one of the most destructive left-handed finishers in world cricket, he still has plenty to offer. His match-winning run with Gujarat Titans in 2022, where he smashed 481 runs and played a central role in their title charge, is proof of his value.

Heading into the 2026 auction, several teams will be tempted to invest in his finishing experience and calmness under pressure. Here are three franchises who should strongly consider targeting David Miller.

3 Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

KKR have taken a bold route by parting ways with Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer, two major middle-order options. While their Indian core has a solid structure with Rahane, Raghuvanshi, Manish Pandey, Ramandeep Singh, and Rinku Singh, the side clearly lacks an overseas match-finisher.

This is exactly where Miller fits. His ability to absorb pressure early and explode later in the innings gives balance to the middle-order. Eden Gardens, with its true bounce and short boundaries straight, could unlock the best version of his aggressive strokeplay, especially against spin. KKR need experience and fearlessness at the death, Miller brings both.

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2 Gujarat Titans (GT)

Gujarat have tried to restructure their finishing group ever since Hardik Pandya’s departure. But the puzzle hasn’t clicked. Rahul Tewatia and Shah Rukh Khan haven’t consistently delivered, and Sherfane Rutherford’s move to MI only adds to the void.

Miller returning to GT would be a reunion that makes cricketing sense. He understands the camp, thrives under Ashish Nehra’s backing, and has fond memories playing in Ahmedabad, a venue where he has produced some iconic knocks. A familiar environment could spark another late-career purple patch.

1 Delhi Capitals (DC)

DC had strong starts in multiple matches last season, thanks to KL Rahul and Abhishek Porel, but they repeatedly struggled to close out games. Tristan Stubbs stepped up admirably, yet the finishing duty largely rested solely on him.

With Donovan Ferreira gone and experienced overseas batters moving out of the squad, DC are clearly in the market for a proven middle-order presence. Adding Miller alongside Stubbs would give Rishabh Pant’s side a powerful and versatile lower-order, capable of adapting to different situations. If DC want to transform their batting into a more ruthless unit, Miller is the perfect name to target.

David Miller may not have enjoyed his best year, but one lean season cannot overshadow the impact he has made in T20 cricket. For teams craving experience, game awareness, and clean ball-striking in pressure overs, the left-hander remains a premium buy. And in auctions, past champions always attract bidders.