‘We’re likely to see the best of Rohit Sharma’: Dale Steyn predicts massive IPL 2026 season for MI veteran

Dale Steyn pointed out that Rohit Sharma is well-prepared for IPL 2026, and will be more 'focused'.

Updated on: Mar 28, 2026, 13:16:53 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

Dale Steyn made a huge Rohit Sharma prediction, claiming that the Mumbai Indians veteran will have one of his best Indian Premier League seasons. IPL 2026 gets underway on March 28, and Rohit's best IPL campaign was in 2013, when he slammed 538 runs in 19 matches, helping MI to their first title. It is also the only season in which he crossed 500 runs.

Dale Steyn predicted an explosive season for Rohit Sharma. (PTI)

Speaking to the broadcasters, Steyn pointed out that the former MI skipper is well-prepared for IPL 2026, and will be more 'focused'.

Also Read: After criticism from IPL captains, RCB coach passes contrasting verdict on Impact Player rule: 'Interesting but tricky’

"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," he said.

"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.

‘This is his period’: Dale Steyn

The veteran has already retired from Tests and T20Is. For India, he is only available in ODIs. "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", he said.

"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," he added.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

Get live cricket scores, match updates, schedules, results and ICC rankings. Follow the latest news, statistics and performances of top teams and players on Hindustan Times.