BCCI Introduces Bronco Test to Enhance Team India's Fitness

Introduction of the Bronco Test

To further improve the fitness levels of Team India, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has launched the Bronco Test at its Centre of Excellence (COE). This test requires players to complete a designated race within six minutes.

Concerns Raised by Ravichandran Ashwin

Former all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed concerns regarding the Bronco Test, particularly for fast bowlers. He questioned who would be accountable if a player sustains an injury during the test, emphasizing the risk of injuries while attempting to complete the test.

Ashwin's Insights on Training Changes

On his YouTube channel 'Ash's Talk', Ashwin noted that the testing methods often change with new trainers, which can be challenging for players. He recalled his experiences from 2017 to 2019 under trainer Soham Desai, stating that if everything is functioning well within the team, there should be no need for constant changes. The new strength and conditioning coach, Adrian Le Roux, has introduced the Bronco Test, which has received approval from head coach Gautam Gambhir.

Understanding the Bronco Test

The Bronco Test is designed to enhance the fitness of players, especially fast bowlers, requiring them to complete a series of runs within six minutes. The test begins with a 20-meter shuttle run, followed by 40-meter and 60-meter sprints, culminating in a total of five sets (1200 meters) without breaks. This test is commonly used in rugby and football.

Need for the Bronco Test

The introduction of this test comes after Team India's fast bowlers struggled with fitness during their tour of England, where only Mohammed Siraj managed to play five Test matches, while Jasprit Bumrah participated in just three. The Bronco Test is an addition to the existing yo-yo test, and reports indicate that some players have already undergone the Bronco Test at the COE in Bengaluru.