Mumbai Indians begin their IPL 2026 campaign with a high-stakes clash against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday, and all eyes will once again be on Rohit Sharma. The five-time champions are chasing a record sixth title, while Hardik Pandya’s side will be eager to turn the page after an inconsistent run since their last triumph in 2020. Rohit, MI’s former captain and still their most influential top-order batter, finished last season as the franchise’s leading run-getter with 418 runs in 15 innings at a strike rate of 149.28.

In the latter stage of his career, the veteran opener has embraced a more attacking approach, aiming to give Mumbai the kind of explosive starts that can shape an entire innings. Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn believes Rohit’s aggressive intent will continue this season, but with more control and clarity.

“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,” Dale Steyn said on Star Sports.

ALSO READ: Ashish Nehra Jokes About Bumrah Exchange As GT React To Sherfane Rutherford Trade

Rohit’s finest IPL season with the bat came back in 2013, when he smashed 538 runs in 19 matches. But Steyn feels there is still plenty left in the tank, especially now that Rohit is no longer juggling all three formats for India.

“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,” Dale Steyn added. “The world is noticing it, and India is two steps ahead of everyone else.”

With Rohit retired from Tests and T20Is, Steyn believes the IPL now gives him the ideal platform to remind everyone of his class.

ALSO READ: Andy Flower Praises Josh Hazlewood’s Hard Work, Confirms Gradual Return For RCB

“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. Opening at Wankhede is going to be exciting,” Dale Steyn added.

With Quinton de Kock likely to partner him at the top, Mumbai will hope Rohit sets the tone in style.