In this paper a semi-analytical inverse Cauchy problem is presented for a finite cylinder with a cylindrical hole under the surface called the detecting roll. Applications to latent flatness defect detection during rolling process are considered. A steel strip wraps at a known angle around the detecting roll. The presented inverse method aims at evaluating the residual stress profile of the strip. The inputs are the displacements and free surface traction at the hole surface and the outputs are the resultant forces per unit length in the contact between the strip and the roll, thus by equilibrium of the strip the residual stress profile is inferred. This paper is based on plane complex elasticity with conformal mapping techniques. Several 2D-computations are performed at several axial positions. This work is theoretical, the measurement device is not available and technical issues are not broached. Some numerical examples with synthetic data are provided in order to evaluate accuracy and noise sensitivity. Results encourage further investigations and technical developments.