Home SportsGautam Gambhirs animated CHAT with Eden Gardens pitch curator raises concern, hinting at Indias BOLD No.3 plans

Gautam Gambhir’s animated chat with Eden Gardens’ pitch curator sparks curiosity ahead of the Kolkata Test, hinting at India’s bold No.3 batting plans and strategic team changes.

Published date india.com
Published: November 11, 2025 8:07 PM IST

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Gautam Gambhir’s animated CHAT with Eden Garden’s pitch curator raises concern, hinting at India’s BOLD No.3 plans

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 Jurel’s excellent form has increased the pressure on Sudharsan. Jurel recently caught the selectors’ attention with three consecutive centuries.

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Eyes on Jaiswal and Bumrah’s 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 Gambhir’s Strategy

Gautam Gambhir’s 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 Jurel’s form has given the team management something to think about.
All eyes are on Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness.

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