New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly reassessing fitness standards for Indian cricketers amid growing concerns over injuries and declining physical conditioning within the national team setup.
According to reports, the medical team at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru is working on a revamped fitness framework that would introduce standardised benchmarks for all players instead of customised fitness targets. The move comes as the board seeks greater consistency in evaluating player readiness and reducing injury risks.
Since Adrian Le Roux took charge as strength and conditioning coach, the Bronco Test has replaced the Yo-Yo Test as the primary assessment of fitness. Under the proposed system, players may be required to complete the Bronco Test drills within a benchmark time of approximately 5.15 to 5.20 minutes to be declared fit. Additionally, a two kilometre run is expected to be completed within nine to ten minutes.
Reports suggest that internal discussions revealed some senior players had previously been given more relaxed fitness targets compared to others. Questions have also reportedly been raised over the clearance of certain players despite concerns regarding their fitness levels.
The issue has reportedly led to scrutiny of Team India physiotherapist Kamlesh Jain. Both the BCCI and team management are said to have expressed concerns over what they view as a decline in overall fitness standards. Frequent instances of players suffering cramps during India’s recent tour of England reportedly added to these concerns.
Officials are also believed to be worried about reduced mobility in the field, slower running between the wickets and a noticeable decline in fielding standards among some players. The medical staff has reportedly been instructed to raise fitness concerns regardless of a player’s seniority or status within the team.
The report further claimed that fast bowler Harshit Rana was ruled out after the third T20I against England due to weight related concerns. Team management reportedly felt he was above the desired weight range, prompting additional monitoring by the Centre of Excellence. He is now said to be working towards meeting the prescribed fitness standards before receiving clearance to return.
The reported review reflects the BCCI’s efforts to strengthen player conditioning and maintain high fitness levels as India prepares for a demanding international calendar.
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