Former India pace spearhead Javagal Srinath is a strong contender to take over as India's new bowling coach for the team's historic tour of Pakistan beginning next month.

The 34-year-old, who retired from international cricket last November, is likely to step into the shoes of former Australian left-arm paceman Bruce Reid, who was India's bowling coach during their recent tour of Australia.

With Reid not available due to personal reasons, Srinath's name has started doing the rounds after skipper Sourav Ganguly told reporters at New Delhi on Thursday that an Indian would accompany the team as bowling coach.

"Since Reid is not available we are looking at different options and Srinath is a possibility. But no decision has been taken yet," BCCI sources said.

The BCCI is expected to appoint the new bowling coach at its Working Committee meeting at New Delhi on Saturday.

Srinath is India's second most successful fast bowler with 236 wickets from 67 Tests, behind Kapil Dev who has 434 wickets from 131 Tests.