‘This is not my first IPL’: Miller admits frustration after being benched by DC

David Miller admitted to being frustrated after being left out of Delhi Capitals’ starting XI for the final two games of IPL 2026, but the veteran South Africa batsman insists he fully understands the demands of the team mix in the tournament.Speaking ahead of Delhi Capitals’ match against Kolkata Knight Riders in Delhi, Miller was once again on the bench and the result was the same for hosts Delhi, who suffered their fifth consecutive home defeat. KKR registered their fourth win of the season with the help of Finn Allen’s century. Miller admitted that missing out is never easy, especially for a player who has been an IPL regular since 2012. However, he insisted that the team’s overseas balance and tactical mix remain the top priority.

“Obviously it’s frustrating. You always want to play every game, but this is the IPL. The structure of having only four overseas players in the eleven means combinations become very important for the team,” Miller said.DC picked Pathum Nissanka at the top of the order while also accommodating overseas pacers Mitchell Starc and Lungi Ngidi, with Miller on the sidelines. Despite the disappointment, the veteran batsman said he remains committed to making a positive contribution to the team.“I have been here for a long time. This is not my first time in the IPL, so I understand the makeup of the team. My focus is to constantly provide positive feedback to the team, stay supportive and contribute whatever I can to the team,” he added.Miller also emphasized that he is preparing himself should the opportunity arise again later this season.“I just want to stay ready and be ready. That’s what players like to do, whether the opportunity comes again or not,” he said.The 2026 season has been a tough one for Miller so far. In seven innings, he scored just 123 runs with a strike rate of 146.42. Although he has been unbeaten on four occasions, his best contribution remains his 41 off 20 balls against the Gujarat Titans earlier this season, an innings that will be remembered for a controversial missed single and a brilliant performance late on.