BCCI Tightens Team India Fitness Norms, Removes Senior Player Exemptions and Raises Bronco Test Benchmark

After a disappointing run of results and a growing injury list, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly decided to enforce tougher fitness standards for all Indian cricketers. According to reports, the board has instructed the medical and strength & conditioning staff at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru to adopt a uniform fitness policy, with no special concessions for senior or star players.

The move comes after India’s difficult tour of the United Kingdom, where recurring injuries and visible fitness concerns affected the team’s performances. Reports suggested that the team management noticed several players struggling with endurance, running between the wickets, and maintaining intensity in the field during long spells.

BCCI Removes Special Exemptions for Senior Players

As per reports, the BCCI has directed head physio Kamlesh Jain to evaluate every player using the same fitness standards, regardless of experience or reputation. Any player failing to meet the required benchmarks will be reported without exception.

Previously, senior players were believed to have customised fitness targets, allowing them to clear assessments under relatively relaxed standards. That system is now set to be discontinued as the board aims to create a level playing field for everyone.

Bronco Test Becomes More Demanding

India’s strength and conditioning coach Adrian Le Roux will oversee the revised fitness assessments. The Bronco test, which replaced the Yo-Yo test as the team’s primary endurance assessment, has reportedly been made even tougher.

Under the revised guidelines, players must complete the Bronco shuttle test within 5 minutes and 15 to 20 seconds. In addition, they will also be required to complete a timed 2-kilometre run in between 9 and 10 minutes to remain eligible for selection.

Fitness Overhaul Triggered by Injuries and Poor Results

The stricter policy follows a series of injury setbacks that have disrupted India’s preparations across formats. Several key players have spent significant time on the sidelines, while recurring fitness concerns have affected team combinations.

With the BCCI now prioritising consistent fitness standards, every player—regardless of seniority—will have to meet the same physical benchmarks before being considered available for national selection.