The Indian cricket team is set for a fitness revolution. After years of relying on gym work and the popular Yo-Yo Test, the BCCI has introduced the Bronco Test, a demanding running-based drill designed to push players, especially fast bowlers, to their absolute limits.
This cutting-edge test, widely used in rugby and football, will now form a key part of Team India’s fitness regime. The goal? To improve aerobic capacity, endurance, and recovery speed — all of which are vital for success in modern cricket.
Why the Bronco Test?
After the recently concluded five-Test series in England, the team’s fitness levels became a matter of concern. Only Mohammed Siraj managed to play all five matches, while others struggled with workload and injuries.
The management, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir and strength and conditioning coach Adrian le Roux, felt that too much focus was being placed on gym routines rather than real-world running fitness. The Bronco Test is their answer — a more practical, high-intensity challenge that mirrors the demands of actual match play.
What Exactly Is the Bronco Test?
At first glance, it looks simple. But once you start, it’s brutal. Here’s how it works:
- Players run 20 metres, touch the line, return.
- Then run 40 metres, touch, return.
- Then run 60 metres, touch, return.
This completes one set (120 metres).
The challenge is to do five such sets back-to-back, without a break. That’s a total of 1,200 metres of shuttle running.
The benchmark set for Indian fast bowlers is under 6 minutes. Fall short, and you’ve got more work to do.
For context: elite rugby players and endurance athletes also use the Bronco Test, and even they find it extremely tough. It’s not just about speed — it’s about stamina, turning ability, and recovery under fatigue.
Bronco Test vs Yo-Yo Test: What’s the Difference?
For years, the Yo-Yo Test was India’s gold standard for fitness. It involves 20-metre shuttle runs at increasing speeds, with short recovery periods. Team India’s pass mark is 17.1 on the Yo-Yo scale.
The Bronco Test, however, is continuous and much more taxing on the body. Instead of short breaks, players run relentlessly for around 6 minutes. This means it doesn’t just measure cardiovascular fitness, but also mental resilience and turning ability — something especially relevant for fast bowlers sprinting in long spells.
Along with the Bronco Test, Team India players will also be tested on:
- 2 km Run
- Fast bowlers: must finish in 8 minutes 15 seconds
- Batters, spinners, wicketkeepers: 8 minutes 30 seconds
- Yo-Yo Test
- Minimum standard: 17.1
This three-pronged fitness system ensures players are tested on endurance, speed, and sustained effort.
Why Fast Bowlers Benefit the Most
Cricket has evolved into a physically demanding sport, especially in the T20 era. Fast bowlers, in particular, need explosive pace, recovery between overs, and the ability to bowl multiple spells across formats.
The Bronco Test is perfect for this because:
- It mirrors match intensity – repeated sprints with turns, just like running in to bowl.
- It builds stamina – completing 1,200 metres nonstop under pressure strengthens both the heart and lungs.
- It enhances mental toughness – the test forces players to keep pushing when fatigue kicks in.
- It ensures accountability – there’s no hiding; times are recorded, and results are clear.
What the Coaches Say
A source close to the team revealed:
“The Bronco Test is not just about numbers. It’s about showing commitment and mental toughness. Indian fast bowlers were spending too much time in the gym. Now, they’ll have to prove their running ability, which is crucial for long tours and back-to-back matches.”
The introduction of the Bronco Test brings India in line with global sporting practices. Top rugby nations like New Zealand and Australia have used it for years to maintain high aerobic standards. Football academies across Europe also rely on it to develop endurance in young players.
By adopting it, India is sending a clear message: fitness is non-negotiable, and only the fittest will survive in the modern game.
The Bronco Test is more than just another drill — it’s a mindset shift for Team India. With the Asia Cup and the long cricketing season ahead, this fitness overhaul could make a huge difference in reducing injuries and boosting on-field performance.
So the next time you see an Indian fast bowler charging in with energy even in the 90th over, remember — it’s the Bronco Test working behind the scenes.
