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

#3 Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals)

Sanju Samson has been one of the shining lights in an underwhelming campaign for Rajasthan Royals

Matches:9, Runs:310, Average:38.75, Strike Rate:142.85, Fifties:2, Fours:19, Sixes:14

Sanju Samson first came into limelight as a teenage sensation when he became the youngest to score an IPL fifty at the age of 18 in 2013.

Consistent performances at the junior level and the IPL enabled him to get a look in to receive his maiden India cap in a T20I against Zimbabwe in 2015. However, he has quite surprisingly not got another opportunity to dawn Indian colours till date.

His current IPL performances though inspire confidence as he looks in exquisite touch with the bat.

He was bought back by his old side Rajasthan Royals for a massive sum of ₹8 crore this year and the move back to familiar surroundings has done him a world of good.

His strokeplay has been pleasing on the eye and he's the major reason for Rajasthan Royals' three wins so far.

His 92* against Royal Challengers Bangalore was a special innings in which he showcased all the talents he possesses.

If he can continue his rich vein of form for the rest of the tournament, the Kerala wicket-keeper batsman might surely be next in line to replace MS Dhoni, once the great man decides to call it a day.