During the three-Test match series in Sri Lanka, all eyes will be on Virat Kohli, whose skills as a full-fledged Test captain will be put to test.
Though Kohli led the Indian side in Australia and Bangladesh also, the forthcoming Test series that starts from 12 August will put the spotlight firmly on him.
Donning the skipper's cap is not an easy job for an Indian cricketer; demanding fans make it even more tough, and Kohli would know it well.
Former Sri Lankan wicket-keeper batsman, Romesh Kaluwitharana, feels people in India might be very eager to witness Kohli's performance as captain. The Sri Lanka series will be Kohli's massive test of character.
"For India, expectations will be high too. A lot of people back in their country have a keen interest and they will watch how Kohli shapes up as skipper. He will have to deal with all those expectations. I am sure the new captain wants to perform and is very hungry to win," PTI quoted Kaluwitharana as saying.
India played a practice match against Sri Lanka Board President XI, which ended in a draw, but the bowlers primarily, Ishant Sharma, did leave a mark in the three day Test match. The performance of Indian bowlers impressed Kaluwathirana.
He also said the touring Indian team is a balanced one.
"They looked very balanced and focused ahead of this series and what will also be the start of the new season for them. I was particularly impressed with their bowling in this three-day match. The batsmen didn't spend a lot of time in the middle but they were hitting balls in the nets as well. All in all, I think they are ready for the Test series," said Kaluwathirana.
With the Test match starting in a few days time, India's think-tank might be chalking out their best 11 to take on Sri Lanka in the first Test. As far as the bowlers are concerned, Virat Kohli has already said he prefers five bowlers.
The combination of bowlers is not easy to arrive at, said Kaluwathirana.
"While all their bowlers looked good here, it is tough to assume what the combination will be. Until we see the pitch in Galle, we cannot assume whether they will go in with three pacers or two spinners. Generally they do three pacers and two spinners.
"But they have this luxury because some of their bowlers can do well with the bat. Any team will want to assume this balance in Test cricket, if they can," said Kaluwitharana.
