Just a day ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has picked two overseas veterans, South Africa's David Miller and England's Jonny Bairstow, as players likely to get hefty sums. Bangar stated that the growing demand is for match-winners, particularly those who bring experience and composure under pressure.
Teams with strong purses and clear needs, including the Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings, are expected to be aggressive in the auction room. The former coach-turned commentator believes David Miller could emerge as one of the top three most expensive players at the auction, primarily due to his dependency in crucial moments.
In IPL 2025, the South African managed to score just 153 runs in 11 matches at an average of 30.60. However, his experience is set to make him a solid buy. Meanwhile, Bangar stressed that Bairstow's full availability for T20 cricket significantly enhances his market value, and teams will be desperately eyeing him at the auction.