IPL 2018: Indian team hopefuls who have impressed so far this season

#4 Siddarth Kaul (Sunrisers Hyderabad)

Siddarth Kaul has been one of the most impressive pacers this season

Matches:9, Wickets:12, Economy Rate:7.13, Strike Rate:18

Siddarth Kaul, a member of India's victorious 2008 U-19 World Cup team has had to take the long route to become a prominent member of an IPL team.

It was in 2017 that Kaul caught everyone's attention with his performances in a strong Sunrisers pace-bowling attack.

The Punjab pacer has taken his bowling to another level this season. He has added an extra yard of pace to his accuracy and he's been brought on to bowl at all the difficult phases of the match.

Yet he has maintained an impressive economy rate of just above seven. Kaul has evolved into an effective T20 bowler and as a mainstay of the Sunrisers bowling unit, under the guidance of Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

The best aspect of his performances so far was seen when he assumed the role of leader of the attack in Bhuvi's absence.

He played a key role in helping Sunrisers defend three low targets in Bhuvi's absence. He's also put himself in contention for the Purple Cap with 12 wickets so far.

Kaul has been the most Indian impressive fast-bowler this season, Umesh Yadav. The selectors would have surely taken note of his performances and he must be next pacer in line to make his debut for India.