New Delhi: The two-match Test series between India and South Africa is set to begin in Kolkata on Friday. The Indian team led by head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill began their preparations on Sunday. Players returning from Australia went straight to the ground without rest and participated in an optional training session. Gambhir Inspects the Pitch According to reports Gautam Gambhir was the first to arrive at the ground and went straight to inspect the pitch. He was accompanied by batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and bowling coach Morne Morkel. The trio meticulously inspected the pitch for about 10 minutes. Gambhir was then seen having a long conversation with pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee. Gill Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan Train Intensely in the Nets Shubman Gill Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan had an intense practice session in the nets. Tamil Nadu batsman Sudharsan who has recently been under scrutiny for his form had a long throwdown session on the center wicket. Gambhir himself kept a close eye on his batting. This indicates that the team management will retain him at number 3 in the Kolkata Test. Increased Pressure on Sudharsan Challenged by Dhruv Jurel Selector Ajit Agarkar has already made it clear that Sudharsan will be given a long run. However he is yet to fully live up to that trust. He has only 273 runs in nine innings. On the other hand wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurels excellent form has increased the pressure on Sudharsan. Jurel recently caught the selectors attention with three consecutive centuries. Eyes on Jaiswal and Bumrahs Fitness Yashasvi Jaiswal after scoring a century in the Ranji Trophy practiced against both spinners and fast bowlers in the nets. Meanwhile Jasprit Bumrah had a light training session. He initially only did warm-ups and bowled with a short run-up. Although a bandage was seen on his right knee he later bowled a brief spell indicating that his fitness is under control. All Eyes on Gambhirs Strategy Gautam Gambhirs first home Test series as coach is considered crucial. His decisions regarding team composition and batting order in Kolkata could shape the future direction of the Indian team. Story Highlights Team India held an optional training session before the Kolkata Test. Gautam Gambhir inspected the pitch and formulated his strategy. Indications suggest Sai Sudharsan will be retained at number 3. Dhruv Jurels form has given the team management something to think about. All eyes are on Jasprit Bumrahs fitness.