IPL 2026: ‘He can single-handedly change the game’ – Sanjay Bangar lauds David Miller after DC beat PBKS

Delhi Capitals (DC) kept their playoff hopes alive in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 with a thrilling three-wicket win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala on May 11. Chasing a stiff target under pressure, DC’s middle-order finally delivered as David Miller starred with a blistering knock to guide the side home.

Following the game, former India batter and expert Sanjay Bangar praised Miller’s brutal hitting and highlighted how the South African completely took control of the chase once he settled in.

“When David Miller is in full flow, he doesn’t just dominate the leg side. We all know he can clear deep mid-wicket and long on at will. But when he starts smashing the ball through the offside and over covers, it signals he is in a different zone. That’s when bowlers know they are in trouble. The ball was coming onto the bat nicely, and there was a bit of dew on the outfield. That combination made the pitch even better for batting. The ball skidded on, and Miller didn’t have to force his shots. He just timed them, and the ball raced away,” he said while speaking on Star Sports.

Bangar also criticised Punjab’s bowling approach, stating that the bowlers failed to use variations and allowed Miller to dictate terms throughout the innings.

“Punjab’s bowlers hardly used any slower variations. They didn’t try to change the pace or use cutters. They either went for wide yorkers or bowled predictable length balls. Miller didn’t have to worry about being deceived. He picked the length early, got into position, and just teed off. It was a clean, ruthless innings. He didn’t just score runs; he made a statement. When Miller bats like this, he can single-handedly change the course of a game,” he continued.

The former India batting coach also lauded Delhi’s middle order, which had struggled for consistency throughout the season but finally stepped up in a must-win clash. He further praised the contributions of Axar Patel, Ashutosh Sharma, and youngster Madhav Tiwari, all of whom played important roles during the chase.

“Delhi Capitals’ win against Punjab Kings was powered by their middle order and finishers. So far this season, DC’s success has relied heavily on the top order. KL Rahul has been their main batter, scoring bulk of the runs. Nitish Rana at number three has also played key roles, though he missed this game. Sameer Rizvi helped them win early matches as well. But the middle order has been a weak link. They have struggled to finish games. David Miller has been in and out, Ashutosh Sharma has barely played, and Tristan Stubbs has been out of form. That inconsistency has hurt DC. But against Punjab, the middle order finally stepped up. Axar played a Captain’s knock. Miller was at his brutal best with power hitting. Ashutosh played a superb 24-run cameo. Young Madhav Tiwari made a pressure chase look easy. That middle order performance won them the game. Had they done this earlier, Delhi would not be stuck at seventh on the points table,” he continued.

Bangar also felt Punjab Kings made tactical errors during the second innings and specifically questioned skipper Shreyas Iyer’s decision not to use Yuzvendra Chahal in the middle overs.

“Punjab Kings started the season strongly with six wins, but four straight losses since have hurt their confidence. This match against Delhi was there for the taking. They were in a winning position but let it slip. Their bowling attack lacked discipline, and the dew made it even harder to execute their plans. That allowed Delhi’s batters to take charge.”

“I felt Shreyas Iyer made a tactical error by not using Yuzvendra Chahal. He should have bowled in the middle overs. Chahal is a proven match-winner with the ability to break partnerships. Not giving him the ball was a big mistake. He should have bowled at least one over, especially after the ball was changed at the end of the 13th over. That was the ideal time to introduce spin and create pressure. Small mistakes here and there cost Punjab the game,” he concluded.

It was a must-win game for the Delhi Capitals to stay alive in the competition. They currently are at the seventh position with 10 points to their name. For PBKS, this was their fourth consecutive loss.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.