David Miller's release likely: Teams which LSG superstar might attract in IPL mini auction

David Miller likely to be released [Source: AFP]

The excitement around the IPL 2026 Mega Auction is already heating up, with reports suggesting the grand event will take place in mid-December, likely between December 13 and 15, as per Cricbuzz. This mega auction will see all ten IPL franchises reshaping their squads, releasing some big names and bringing in new talent ahead of the new season.

One major headline that has grabbed attention is the possible release of South Africa star batter David Miller by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Since their debut in 2022, LSG have yet to lift an IPL trophy and after a disappointing IPL 2025 season, the team management seems ready for a major reshuffle. 

Reports suggest that LSG may part ways with David Miller, Akash Deep, and Mayank Yadav as they look to rebuild.

Reasons why LSG might release David Miller ahead of IPL 2026 auction

While the franchise has not officially confirmed the reason behind Miller’s potential release, his 2025 IPL performance offers some clues. LSG had a tough season, finishing seventh on the points table with only six wins in 14 matches. The top order, led by Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh, delivered consistent performances, but the middle order struggled to capitalise on starts.

David Miller, known for his finishing ability, couldn’t make a strong impact. In 11 innings, he scored 153 runs at an average of 30.60 and a strike rate of 127.49, decent but below the expectations set by his previous seasons. Compared to his IPL career average of 35.77 and strike rate of 138.60, Miller’s 2025 campaign was clearly below par.

Moreover, LSG’s overseas combination seems packed with top-order and batting-heavy players. With Marsh, Pooran, and Aiden Markram already in the mix, the team may prefer to use their fourth overseas slot for a bowler, considering injuries hurt their bowling attack last season. Players like Ayush Badoni and Abdul Samad also stepped up in the middle order, making Miller’s position more vulnerable.

---

ALSO READ

David Miller IPL Team

---

In short, Miller’s release looks like a strategic decision to strengthen LSG’s bowling department. 

IPL Franchises that might bid for David Miller 

Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals have struggled to find middle-order stability despite boasting one of the most balanced squads. Since their maiden IPL title in 2008, they haven’t lifted the trophy again. In IPL 2025, their middle order often collapsed under pressure, especially when their top order failed.

RR relied heavily on Shimron Hetmyer and Riyan Parag in the middle order, but both lacked consistency. Hetmyer managed only 239 runs in 13 innings, and his finishing touch wasn’t as sharp as expected. If RR decide to release him, David Miller could be a perfect replacement, an experienced, left-handed finisher who can handle pressure situations.

[RR stats of batters from no 4 to no 7 in IPL 2025]

Miller’s IPL numbers at No. 5 are particularly impressive: 2,022 runs in 75 innings, averaging 44.49 at a strike rate of 145.92. His ability to guide run chases and finish games could solve RR’s long-standing middle-order issues.

Chennai Super Kings 

For the first time in their history, Chennai Super Kings finished at the bottom of the table in IPL 2025. Their season was marred by inconsistent batting, especially in the middle order. The team’s collective batting average stood at 29.42, with a strike rate of 137.55 across 14 matches.

With possible releases of players like Devon Conway, Rahul Tripathi, Vijay Shankar, and Sam Curran, CSK could use an experienced overseas batter to stabilise their lineup. The retirement of Ravichandran Ashwin and questions over the fitness of key players open space for a reliable middle-order performer.

[CSK stats of batters from no 4 to no 7 in IPL 2025]

David Miller fits CSK’s profile perfectly, experienced and capable of finishing games. His partnership potential with Shivam Dube could bring back the power and consistency CSK’s middle order lacked in 2025.

Kolkata Knight Riders

The 2024 champions KKR had a forgettable IPL 2025, finishing eighth on the table. Their biggest weakness was a shaky middle order. From positions 4 to 7, KKR’s batters combined for only 839 runs in 13 innings, with an otherwise healthy strike rate of 143.91, but without consistency.

[KKR stats of batters from no 4 to no 7 in IPL 2025]

Players like Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, and Ramandeep Singh struggled to deliver big knocks. That’s where David Miller could come in as a reliable, power-hitting anchor. His experience and proven record at No. 5 make him an ideal fit for KKR’s batting setup, which needs both stability and explosiveness.

---

ALSO READ

Samson To KKR? IPL Homecomings That Could Benefit Teams In Trade And Auction

---