Earlier this week, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly had confirmed that Team India will tour Sri Lanka in July for a bilateral limited-overs series. This series would not feature Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma because they would be in England gearing up for their five-match Test series against the Three Lions following the World Test Championship final. 

By virtue of that, India will be sending a second line of contingent to Sri Lanka. Given that a different side will be picked for the tour, who does the BCCI intend to assign the role of leadership to? According to PTI, a BCCI official has reportedly revealed that veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan and all-rounder Hardik Pandya are strong contenders for the captaincy role.

According to the source, Shreyas Iyer would have been an ideal choice if it hadn't been for his surgery and recovery. Shikhar Dhawan, the most senior member available for selection, is perhaps the frontrunner to assume the responsibility.

"It is still not clear if Shreyas will recover fully and will be match-fit in time for a tour of Sri Lanka. Normally, a surgery of this scale along with rest, extensive rehab and training to get back in shape takes around four months," a BCCI official privy to the selection matters, on condition of anonymity, told PTI.

Gabbar for captaincy

"In case Shreyas was available, he would have been the automatic choice for captaincy. Shikhar has had two very good IPL including this curtailed one and being the senior-most among those who are available for selection, he is a very strong contender. Also, he has been a solid performer for India for the past eight years," an official told PTI.

A chance for Hardik Pandya to step up his overall game

"Yes, Hardik hasn't been regularly bowling for MI or India in recent times. However, he is the man with x-factor and among the options available. He is miles ahead of his peers in terms of being an impact performer. And who knows, maybe extra responsibility brings the best out of him."

"Hardik, after his back surgery to cure stress fracture, is not the same bowler anymore. He was a fast-medium bowler before the injury but to bowl at a brisk 135 kmph plus pace consistently, could impact his back. So he is focussing more on his match finishing skills," the source added.

Who do you think is the most likely captaincy candidate? Please leave your thoughts in the comments section below.

[With PTI inputs]