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"He'll be among the top 3 buys": Sanjay Bangar predicts massive IPL 2026 auction battle

Jatin

Miller likely to get attraction in auction [source: AFP Photo]Miller likely to get attraction in auction [source: AFP Photo]

With the IPL 2026 mini auction around the corner, the buzz has already begun to build. Big purses, big gaps to fill and a handful of players who could spark bidding wars.

Sanjay Bangar backs David Miller to dominate IPL auction

One such name, according to former India batter Sanjay Bangar, is South Africa’s ice-cool finisher David Miller. The IPL auction, set to be held in Abu Dhabi on December 16, could see franchises loosen their purse strings for a batter who has made a career out of finishing games under pressure.

Bangar feels Miller ticks every box that teams look for in the modern T20 game. Experience, composure and the knack of closing out matches when the heat is on.

Speaking on JioStar’s ‘IPL Auction Most Wanted’, Bangar didn’t mince words about Miller’s value in the auction room.

“David Miller will likely be among the top three most expensive players in this auction. Several teams need a player with his finishing ability — Gujarat Titans, for instance, would benefit from his experience, while Kolkata Knight Riders could target him too, especially with Andre Russell’s retirement and a healthy purse at their disposal,” Bangar said.

That is high praise and not without reason. Miller has been there, seen it all and still walks out with a calm face when most batters are feeling the squeeze.

Why GT and KKR make sense

For Gujarat Titans, Miller is a familiar face and a trusted one. His ability to steady the ship and then go for the kill fits perfectly into their middle-order blueprint.

For Kolkata Knight Riders, the need feels even more pressing. With Andre Russell no longer in the picture, KKR are staring at a massive hole in the death-overs department.

Miller may not bowl thunderbolts like Russell, but when it comes to finishing chases and clearing the ropes under pressure, he is as reliable as they come.

KKR’s massive purse changes the game

KKR walk into the auction with the biggest wallet in the room: a whopping INR 64.30 crore still in hand. That kind of firepower gives them freedom. Freedom to outbid rivals and chase proven match-winners.

Bangar believes that flexibility could put KKR right at the front of the queue for Miller, especially if they want a calm head to guide their batting in crunch moments. In short, if KKR decide they want Miller, they can make life very uncomfortable for everyone else.

All eyes on December 16

As the IPL auction day inches closer, one thing feels certain. David Miller’s name won’t come cheap. Teams desperate for a proven finisher will circle his name in red.

Whether it’s GT looking for experience or KKR hunting a new match-winner, the stage is set for a bidding battle. And if history is any guide, when pressure rises, Miller tends to thrive.