IPL 2026: LSG should release David Miller and target these three players ahead of auction

David Miller is one of the Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) players who are likely to be released ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction. He joined the Lucknow-based franchise for INR 7.5 crore during the IPL 2025 mega-auction. However, he failed to live up to his reputation, scoring just 153 runs in 11 matches at an average of 30.60 and a strike rate of 127.50. The southpaw had a highest score of just 27 not out.

Due to Miller's dismal performance, LSG's top-order had to the heavy lifting, with openers Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh alongside Nicholas Pooran doing the bulk of the scoring. By letting Miller go, LSG can free up INR 7.5 crore, which will help them pick someone who can add more value to the team.

Lucknow finished seventh on the points table, with six wins and eight losses from 14 matches. After failing to reach the playoffs in consecutive years, Lucknow will look to assemble a strong team and stake a claim for the title in 2026.

Here are 3 potential replacements LSG must look at over David Miller

3. Matthew Short

Matthew Short's flexibility as a batter could come in handy for Lucknow Super Giants. The right-handed batter can play in the top-order and can also take up the finisher's role. He can also chip in with the ball if required.

Short knows how to use the long handle to good effect and score runs quickly. He is a powerful bloke, who can clear the longest of boundaries with relative ease. LSG are known to prefer cricketers with leadership experience. Short fallS in that category, as he has led teams in franchise cricket during his career. In 17 T20Is, the Ballarat-born has a strike rate of 156.87.