To bolster the fitness of the Indian cricket team, the BCCI has introduced the Bronco test. The test is being administered at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (COE). The test involves players completing a specified race within a 6-minute time frame; the test is particularly geared towards fast bowlers. Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed reservations about the test, questioning who would bear responsibility if players were to sustain injuries during the test. He believes that the test might increase the risk of injuries for the cricketers.
On his YouTube channel, ‘Ash Ki Baat,’ Ashwin noted that the training methods often change with the arrival of a new team trainer. He highlighted that these constant adjustments to training can create difficulties for the players and potentially lead to injuries. He referenced his own experiences between 2017 and 2019 when Soham Desai was in charge. He suggested that modifying the established system might not be necessary when the team is performing well. Adrian Le Roux, the Strength and Conditioning Coach who succeeded Soham Desai, proposed the Bronco test, which was subsequently approved by Head Coach Gautam Gambhir.
The Bronco test is designed to enhance the fitness of the Indian team. The test requires players, especially fast bowlers, to complete a defined running circuit within a 6-minute period. This involves an initial 20-meter shuttle run, followed by runs of 40 and 60 meters. These runs are assembled into a set, and players are expected to perform five sets (a total of 1200 meters) continuously. This test is also employed in sports like rugby and football.
The introduction of the test was motivated by the fitness challenges experienced by India’s fast bowlers during the England tour. Only Mohammed Siraj played in all five Test matches, whereas Jasprit Bumrah was able to play in only three. The Bronco test is implemented as an added fitness assessment alongside the existing Yo-Yo test. As per reports, certain players have already undertaken the Bronco test at the COE in Bengaluru.