Unveiled: The Rugby-inspired Bronco test, a new physical fitness assessment, set for adoption by India's national cricket squad

The Indian cricket team is set to incorporate a new fitness test into its training regime, with the Bronco Test being introduced as a benchmark for the fast bowlers. Originally designed for rugby players, this test is now being adopted by the cricket fraternity for its comprehensive assessment of a fast bowler's fitness.

The Bronco Test involves running a total distance of 1200 meters, split into five sets. Each set requires the bowler to run 240 meters, with the course consisting of 0m to 60m, back to 0m, to 40m, back to 0m, to 20m, and finally back to 0m. The challenge lies in completing all five sets under six minutes.

Fast bowlers are likened to cricket decathletes, requiring varied energy systems and skills. Their performances involve running, sprinting, braking, and jumping with external and internal forces acting on the body from varied angles. The Bronco Test, therefore, focuses not only on strength but also considers other aspects of a fast bowler's fitness, such as aerobic fitness, flexibility, core strength, reactive strength, balance, and power.

The test has already been taken by several of India's top players, with the aim of improving their fast-bowling physiology. The suggestion for its introduction has come from Indian strength and conditioning coach Adrian Le Roux.

The Bronco Test is also beneficial for understanding the aerobic fitness levels and fatigue index of fast bowlers. This information can be harnessed according to the individual's skill, providing valuable insights into their performance and potential areas for improvement.

Meanwhile, for batters, wicketkeepers, and spinners, the benchmark for the 2-km time trial is eight minutes and 30 seconds. Fast bowlers, however, have a stricter benchmark of eight minutes and 15 seconds.

Recent performances during the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy have highlighted the need for such a test. Anshul Kamboj, who made his Test debut at Manchester, bowled below his usual speed-gun readings, while Jasprit Bumrah also struggled with his pace in the latter half of the series.

The use of the Bronco Test by the Indian cricket team has been reported by The Indian Express. Some experts, like Ramji Srinivasan, who was India's strength and conditioning coach during the 2011 World Cup, believe that this test could help the injury-stricken Indian fast bowlers.

In conclusion, the Bronco Test offers a comprehensive evaluation of a fast bowler's fitness, providing valuable data and insights that can be used to improve performance and prevent injuries. Its introduction into the Indian cricket team's training regime is a significant step towards ensuring the fitness and well-being of its fast bowlers.