Along with the current Yo-Yo Test and 2-kilometer time trial, Indian cricket head coach Gautam Gambhir and strength and conditioning coach Adrian le Roux are said to have included the Bronco Test as a new standard in an effort to improve fitness levels.
The Bronco Test was first created for rugby and tests cardiovascular limits and aerobic endurance. With its debut, Indian cricket is moving toward endurance-focused fitness measurements, especially for positions requiring prolonged physical exertion like fast bowling.
WHAT IS THE BRONCO TEST?
A high-intensity aerobic running exercise called the Bronco Test is used to gauge a player’s cardiovascular conditioning, speed, and stamina. Shuttle runs of 20, 40, and 60 meters are part of it. Players must run all three distances in a single set and five consecutive sets totaling 1,200 meters without stopping. Completing the test in six minutes is the aim.
The test has already been completed by a number of Indian players at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where it is presently being tested as a common fitness test, according to the Indian Express.
Adrian le Roux, who returned to the Indian squad as strength and conditioning coach in June 2025, recommended that the test be added. Le Roux, who worked with Cricket South Africa and IPL teams like the Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings, previously held the position from January 2002 to May 2003.
Growing concerns that Indian players, especially fast bowlers, were spending too much time in the gym and not enough time on running-based endurance conditioning led Le Roux to propose the Bronco Test, according to The Indian Express.
A source quoted in the report said: “The Bronco Test has been introduced at the Centre of Excellence. Some of India’s contracted players have travelled to Bengaluru and have taken the test. It is being used to ensure there are clear fitness standards. Also, it was noticed that Indian cricketers, more so the fast bowlers, were not running enough and spending too much time in the gym. Players have been told that they will have to do more running.”
HOW DOES BRONCO TEST DIFFER FROM YO-YO TEST?
Since 2017, the Yo-Yo Test, which was instituted by former strength coach Shankar Basu under Virat Kohli’s supervision, has been an integral part of India’s fitness regimen. Running between two cones spaced 20 meters apart is the test’s objective, and the pace increases with each level. After each 40-meter run, players are given ten seconds to rest. A minimum score of 17.1 is needed to pass.
The Bronco Test is intended to evaluate continuous aerobic endurance, whereas the Yo-Yo Test concentrates on interval recovery and agility. When combined, the two tests provide a more thorough evaluation of a player’s general level of fitness.
2-KM TIME TRIAL
A 2-kilometer time trial is still used by the BCCI, with various standards for each position. For example, fast bowlers need to finish it in 8 minutes 15 seconds, while batsmen, wicketkeepers, and spinners have a slightly longer standard of 8 minutes 30 seconds. An additional method of measuring sustained endurance under timed situations is offered by this test.
MORE COMPREHENSIVE FITNESS MODEL
Fitness requirements continue to be a top priority ahead of forthcoming assignments, even if the Asia Cup 2025 squad has already been announced. The Bronco Test’s inclusion indicates a renewed focus on stamina and conditioning important to the game, particularly for physically demanding roles.
In order to provide a thorough, role-specific fitness framework, the BCCI combines the Bronco Test, Yo-Yo Test, and 2-kilometer trial. This changing strategy highlights the necessity for Indian players to continuously match the physical demands of the modern game.
