Miller will be among Top 3 expensive players: Bangar

South African David Miller is likely to be among the top three expensive players in the TATA IPL 2026 mini auction to be held on December 16. Former India player Sanjay Bangar said that David Miller could be a prime target for Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders.

“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, a former Railways player, said on TATA IPL Auction Most Wanted show.

Bangar also predicted that England’s Jonny Bairstow could attract strong interest from franchises seeking a dependable top-order batter-wicketkeeper. “Jonny Bairstow offers dual value as a wicketkeeper and a top-order batter. He has a proven pedigree and, since he’s currently focused solely on T20 cricket, his full availability makes him an even stronger prospect. Teams like Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders could be in the mix. Delhi need a top-order option after releasing Jake Fraser-McGurk, while KKR might also look at him given their limited choices beyond Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz,” he stated.

The auction has brought in sharp focus the strategies of the franchises. Former India stumper MSK Prasad lauded Venkatesh Iyer for his adaptability and consistency across roles for Kolkata Knight Riders. “Venkatesh Iyer is a special talent. A versatile left-hander who’s delivered for KKR in multiple roles. He’s shown the ability to open the innings, anchor the middle order, and even finish games when required, which speaks volumes about his flexibility and impact,” Prasad, who also had a successful stint at chairman of the National Senior Selection Committee, said.

Ravi Bishnoi is attracting keen interest from IPL franchises.

SRH and CSK May Target Ravi Bishnoi: MSK Prasad

The former Andhra cricketer also spoke on why Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings might target Ravi Bishnoi at the auction. “Ravi Bishnoi brings great energy to any side. We’ve seen him perform impressively in the IPL, first with Rajasthan Royals and later with Lucknow Super Giants. Teams will always value a pure bowler who’s also an exceptional fielder. Sunrisers Hyderabad will likely have their eyes on Ravi Bishnoi since they’re short on quality spinners. Chennai Super Kings could also be interested as the Chennai surface naturally assists spin, and Bishnoi’s exceptional fielding adds even more value, something MS Dhoni always appreciates in his players,” Prasad added.

Former South African pacer Dale Steyn said England’s Liam Livingstone is a valuable all-rounder. “Liam Livingstone is the kind of player who can clear any boundary with ease and will be highly sought after by most teams. He also contributes with the ball, bowling both leg-spin and off-spin, and brings plenty of experience from playing leagues worldwide. He’s the sort of batter who creates a fear factor and captains often bring on their best bowlers early when he’s at the crease,” Steyn said.

Cameron Green Will Attract Strong Interest: Irfan

Australian Cameron Green is the talking point of the auction and former India all-rounder Irfan Pathn said Green will attract strong interest from teams like Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings at the auction. “Cameron Green is a top-quality all-rounder, and with KKR entering the auction with a sizeable purse, they’ll surely target him. With Andre Russell retired, Green offers a like-for-like replacement. He is someone who can contribute with both bat and ball, though he’ll probably bat a bit higher in the order. I expect CSK to show interest too,” Pathan said.

Cameron Green

The former left-arm seamer said New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell remains a valuable overseas option. “Daryl Mitchell is a quality overseas batter who plays spin exceptionally well and that’s exactly why Chennai Super Kings invested heavily in him earlier, paying around Rs 14 crore. His ability to handle spin on tricky surfaces like Chennai’s makes him a strong asset. With solid experience in both international and league cricket, he brings the temperament and skill teams look for in a proven overseas performer,” Pathan added.