What is Bronco test? BCCI's new fitness benchmark and how it differs from Yo-Yo test

In a bid to raise fitness standards, Indian cricket head coach Gautam Gambhir and strength and conditioning coach Adrian le Roux have reportedly introduced the Bronco Test as a new benchmark, alongside the existing Yo-Yo Test and 2-kilometre time trial. Originally developed for rugby, the Bronco Test measures aerobic endurance and pushes cardiovascular limits. Its introduction signals a shift towards endurance-focused fitness metrics in Indian cricket, particularly for roles like fast bowling that require sustained physical effort.

WHAT IS THE BRONCO TEST?

The Bronco Test is a high-intensity aerobic running drill designed to measure a player's stamina, speed, and cardiovascular conditioning. It involves shuttle runs of 20, 40, and 60 meters. One set consists of running all three distances, and players are required to complete five continuous sets-totaling 1,200 meters-without rest. The goal is to finish the test within six minutes.

According to sources, several Indian players have already undergone the test at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where it is currently being trialed as a standard measure of fitness. The test was introduced on the recommendation of Adrian le Roux, who rejoined the Indian team as strength and conditioning coach in June 2025. Le Roux previously held the role from January 2002 to May 2003, and has also worked with Cricket South Africa and IPL franchises such as Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings.

As reported by The Indian Express, Le Roux proposed the Bronco Test in response to growing concerns that Indian players-particularly fast bowlers-were spending too much time in the gym and not enough on running-based endurance training.

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 IT DIFFER FROM YO-YO TEST?

The Yo-Yo Test has been a key component of India's fitness regime since 2017, introduced by former strength coach Shankar Basu under the leadership of Virat Kohli. The test involves running between two cones placed 20 metres apart, with the pace increasing at each level. Players are allowed a 10-second recovery period after every 40-metre run. To pass, a minimum score of 17.1 is required.

While the Yo-Yo Test focuses on interval recovery and agility, the Bronco Test is designed to assess continuous aerobic endurance. Together, the two tests offer a more comprehensive assessment of a player's overall fitness.

2-KM TIME TRIAL

The BCCI also continues to utilise a 2-kilometre time trial, with specific benchmarks set for different roles: fast bowlers must complete it in 8 minutes 15 seconds, while batters, wicketkeepers, and spinners have a slightly longer benchmark of 8 minutes 30 seconds. This test provides an additional way to gauge sustained endurance under timed conditions.

MORE COMPREHENSIVE FITNESS MODEL

With the Asia Cup 2025 squad already announced, fitness standards remain a key focus ahead of upcoming assignments. The addition of the Bronco Test signals a renewed emphasis on endurance and match-relevant conditioning, especially for physically demanding roles.

By combining the Bronco Test, Yo-Yo Test, and 2-kilometre trial, the BCCI aims to establish a comprehensive, role-specific fitness framework. This evolving approach reflects the increasing physical demands of the modern game—and underscores the need for Indian players to meet them consistently.