Ahead of the IPL 2026 season, South African legend Dale Steyn has thrown his weight behind Rohit Sharma, saying the veteran opener will use the tournament to showcase his skills and remind everyone he remains among the top players.

Steyn believes this could be one of Rohit's best seasons, specifically mentioning he could surpass the 500-run mark.

Rohit’s standout IPL season was 2013, when he amassed 538 runs in 19 innings, helping Mumbai Indians secure their maiden title. While he has been a consistent performer, 2013 remains the only season in which he has touched the 500-run mark in his IPL career.

Steyn also commended Rohit's transformed physique and heavy focus on fitness as he eyes the 2027 ODI World Cup.

“Guns blazing. I think he’s going to come out focused and aggressive, but in a controlled way. It won’t be reckless slogging, it will be cultured, adapted to the conditions. We’re likely to see the best of Rohit Sharma this season,” Steyn told the broadcasters on Friday (March 27).

“You can see it in his physique, and there’s this feeling in the air - cricket is always in the air in India, but now there’s a winning culture Indian cricket is starting to own. The world is noticing it, and India is two steps ahead of everyone else,” he added.

Rohit Sharma enters the IPL 2026 season having officially retired from both Test and T20I formats, now representing India only in ODIs.

According to Steyn, this makes the IPL a crucial stage for the 38-year-old to demonstrate he remains among the elite, alongside peers like Virat Kohli.

Steyn further expressed excitement about Rohit opening at the Wankhede Stadium, potentially alongside Proteas batters like Quinton de Kock or Ryan Rickelton.

“With Rohit not being a permanent fixture in all three formats like before, he’s using the IPL as the perfect stage to showcase his skills and remind everyone he’s still at the top.

“This is his period, two months to show India that he remains among the cream of the crop, alongside Virat and other seasoned players. Opening at Wankhede with Quinton de Kock on the other side, and possibly (Ryan) Rickleton too, Rohit is set to go guns blazing. It’s going to be exciting,” Steyn remarked.

Mumbai Indians will begin their IPL 2026 campaign on Sunday (March 20) at the Wankhede Stadium against Kolkata Knight Riders.