Vaughan has not played a match since February

Chairman of selectors David Graveney had said only players who featured in at least one four-day Championship game would be considered.

And an England and Wales Cricket Board spokesman confirmed: "Neither Michael nor Steve are in contention."

Vaughan's India tour ended early with a knee injury and Harmison left before the third Test with a shin problem.

I enjoy being involved in the game and it's been quite an easy side to captain Andrew Flintoff

The squad to face Sri Lanka at Lord's will be named on Sunday, four days before the match begins.

Neither Vaughan nor Harmison has played since returning from India.

Vaughan, who has returned to running and batting in the nets, was not named in the Yorkshire side playing Sussex at Headingley, while Harmison's Durham have no Championship game this week.

Andrew Flintoff, who led England to a 1-1 series tie in India, is likely to continue as stand-in captain, although management are worried by the all-rounder's workload.

But Flintoff denied the job provided an extra burden, saying: "I got an opportunity in India which enjoyed but to do at home of cricket would be fantastic.

In depth: Test decisions for England selectors

"I enjoy being involved in the game and it's been quite an easy side to captain - captaining your country can't be a burden."

Paul Collingwood stood in for Vaughan in Pakistan and India, scoring a maiden Test century in the first Test in Nagpur.

And Alastair Cook, who hit a century on debut in the same match, is also pushing for a place in the line-up.

Graveney and fellow selectors Duncan Fletcher and Geoff Miller must also patch up the pace-bowling attack with James Anderson already out with a back injury.