Indian cricketers will now face the Bronco Test, introduced by head coach Gautam Gambhir and strength coach Adrian le Roux, as an additional benchmark alongside the Yo-Yo test.
Gautam Gambhir and Adrian le Roux Introduce Bronco Test to Boost Fitness Standards
In a bid to elevate the fitness levels of Indian cricketers, head coach Gautam Gambhir and strength and conditioning coach Adrian le Roux have introduced the Bronco Test as a new benchmark, alongside the existing Yo-Yo test and 2-kilometre time trial.
Traditionally used in rugby, the Bronco Test is designed to measure aerobic endurance and challenge players’ cardiovascular limits. According to The Indian Express, the idea came from le Roux, who rejoined the Indian team in June after earlier stints in the early 2000s. He has also worked with Cricket South Africa and IPL franchises Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings.
The move follows India’s recent five-Test series in England, where sub-par fitness levels were evident among several fast bowlers. Mohammed Siraj was the only pacer to play all five Tests, highlighting durability concerns within the pace unit. Le Roux reportedly advised bowlers to increase their running workload rather than depending heavily on gym-based training, ensuring improved conditioning and resilience.
What is a Bronco Test?
The Bronco Test will now be a mandatory part of the Indian team’s fitness evaluation. The test consists of five continuous sets of shuttle runs over 20, 40, and 60 metres, adding up to 1,200 metres without a break. Players have been tasked with completing the sequence in under six minutes, with several top cricketers already undergoing trials at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
With Gautam Gambhir strongly supporting the move, the Bronco Test is poised to play a central role in India’s selection and fitness framework. While the Yo-Yo test and 2km time trial have long been standard benchmarks, the Bronco introduces a tougher challenge that prioritises endurance and match-readiness.
This test is expected to be particularly significant for players aiming to secure places in the Test and ODI squads, where consistent physical performance across extended periods is crucial.