Calcutta: The India campers had their first light day in the build-up to Wednesday’s AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Saudi Arabia at Salt Lake Stadium. There was no workout at the ground, all ‘activity’ was indoors.

The players had their gym session in the morning. In the afternoon, there was a team meeting where coach Bob Houghton said what needs to be done against the formidable opponents and what he expected from the players.

“It was a short and sweet session lasting about 25-30 minutes during which the coach explained the method we should follow against Saudi Arabia,” said a satisfied Bhaichung Bhutia.

Most players appreciated Houghton’s short, businesslike team meeting, unlike the ones conducted by his predecessors which often turned out to be long-drawn, boring affairs.

On Friday, the players will be shown Saudi Arabia’s match versus Tunisia. Highlights of that World Cup first round game have been made available to the team management.

The match between Saudi Arabia and Tunisia was ended in a 2-2 draw.

“The coach has already watched the cassette with his support staff, tomorrow he’ll sit with the players to analyse the Saudi Arabia team,” manager Pradeep Chowdhury said, adding that eight or nine players of the World Cup squad are coming to Calcutta.

“The coach will have the Saudi Arabia list when he views the cassette with his players tomorrow… that will help identify and analyse the opponents.”

Saudi Arabia will land in the city on Sunday — a day before India are expected to announce their final squad.

However, it will be interesting to note who will lead the side. In absence of Bhaichung, the honour went to S. Venkatesh. But with Bhaichung back, putting to rest speculation over his retirement plans, the team management may hand over the captain’s armband again to him.

“It’s not an issue at all,” Venkatesh maintained.