BCCI plans to implement standardized Bronco and 2K fitness assessments following issues during the England tour.

NEW DELHI: The Indian cricket team is facing a significant challenge with player injuries, prompting the medical team at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru to revamp its fitness program. Reports indicate that the CoE is working towards establishing standardized fitness benchmarks after identifying inconsistent fitness assessments as a key factor contributing to declining fitness levels among players.

Since Adrian Leroux took over as the strength and conditioning coach last year, the team has shifted its approach to fitness testing. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) medical team, which includes personnel from the CoE, has struggled to align their efforts in evaluating player fitness. The Bronco test has been adopted as the primary fitness assessment, replacing the previously used Yo-Yo test. However, the Bronco test lacked a defined baseline until recently, when the BCCI set a target completion time of 5.15 to 5.20 minutes for players to be deemed fit for selection following disappointing performances during the white-ball tours of Ireland and England.

In addition to the Bronco test, the CoE has established a target of 9 to 10 minutes for the 2 km running test, known as the 2K test. A source within the BCCI revealed that the Indian players have not been adequately prepared for the Bronco test, leading to discrepancies in fitness targets. Some senior players were reportedly given more lenient goals, raising concerns about the overall fitness standards. The CoE has faced criticism for allowing players like Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy to pass fitness tests that may not align with the team's requirements.

The BCCI has expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of Team India physio Kamlesh Jain, particularly regarding the frequency of player injuries and cramping, even in favorable conditions. The management has emphasized the need for Jain to prioritize player fitness without regard to their status within the team. Observations have indicated that some senior players are struggling with mobility, affecting their performance on the field.

There have been notable communication issues regarding the new fitness protocols. Players, including Mohammed Siraj, were reportedly unprepared for the recent fitness assessments at the CoE before their departure for Sri Lanka. It appears that contracted players have only recently been informed of the new fitness benchmarks, leaving some Test regulars caught off guard.

In a concerning incident, Jasprit Bumrah was not adequately prepared for the first Test in Sri Lanka, despite assurances from the CoE. Similarly, Harshit Rana faced scrutiny after returning from England due to weight issues, having been flagged for being overweight by four kilograms. The CoE has since set a strict weight limit for him, emphasizing the need for better oversight in player fitness management.

While the Indian team had previously managed to navigate multiple ICC events with minimal injuries, the current approach to fitness has shifted from injury prevention to a more demanding regimen. Players are now subjected to frequent testing, which some believe may lead to burnout rather than maintaining optimal fitness levels. The BCCI is urged to reassess its strategies to ensure that player health remains a priority.