It didn’t end particularly well for David Miller with South Africa’s humbling defeat to New Zealand, but the Proteas veteran still had a good tournament and it begs the question: Was this the last time we will see him at the T20 World Cup?
Miller compiled scores of 39*, 20*, 24*, 63, 22 and 6 in the middle order. His innings of 63 from 35 balls against India in the Super Eights in particular showcased his powerful striking best with seven fours and three sixes.
That innings earned him a man of the match award as South Africa posted 187, after he first strolled to the wicket with the Proteas in big trouble at 20/3 after four overs.
When he departed 11.4 overs later, South Africa were 152/5 and it was job done.
Miller’s Potential Last Stand: Could the 2024 Cricket World Cup Be His International Farewell?
That was the perfect example of the situation Miller regularly found himself in, and more often than not he would have a profound influence on the game as a finisher for South Africa.
Miller though, is 36, turning 37 in June. That means he is probably seriously thinking about his future on the international stage, while he can still keep playing in financially rewarding leagues like the IPL.
In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if Miller makes next year’s 50-over Cricket World Cup on home soil in South Africa his last bow on the international stage.
While he will be 38 when the 2027 World Cup rolls around, he still certainly has unfinished business with the Proteas but anything beyond that may just be a bridge too far in the twilight of his playing days.
@Michael_Sherman
IOL Sport
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