The Indian cricket team introduced the bronco test as a new benchmark in fitness before the Asian Cup 2025.
In the latest video from the Indian cricket council (BCCI), the coach of the power and condition of the Adrian Le Roux team has deeply immersed in the test and how it helps the Indian cricket team to build their strength, helping them avoid injuries.
According to media reports, Le Roux was helpful in changing the team’s fitness exercise. Le Roux reportedly designed a bronco test in response to growing concerns that Indian players, especially fast -mounted pitchs, spent too much time in the gym and not enough for endurance training.
Le Roux explained in the video that the Bronco test was nothing new in the fitness world and has been used in various sports cultures for several years.
What is the Bronco test?
The Bronco test is a high -intensity aerobic drill used to assess the endurance, speed and overall cardiovascular prowess of the player. It consists of shuttles over 20, 40 and 60 meters. One complete set includes all three distances and players have to complete five sets in a row – cover a total of 1,200 meters – without rest. Benchmark time to complete the test is within six minutes.
Several Indian players recently performed a test at the Bcci Center of Excellence in Bengalur and again upon arrival in Dubai at the Asia Cup 2025.
The fitness drill was introduced to the Indian setting on the recommendation of Adrian Le Roux, which in June 2025 returned as a coach of the strength and conditioning of the team. Le Roux previously played the same role from January 2002 to May 2003 and also worked with a cricket of South Africa and Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings.
Why bronco test?
According to Adrian Le Roux, the Bronco test helps the coaches better understand the condition of the player in terms of aerobic fitness. Another reason it uses it is that the Bronco test can be performed in any outdoor condition.
“There are two main reasons we use them. First, it serves as a training mechanism. Second, it is a good measurement tool – helps us see where players are in terms of aerobic condition and whether we are moving in the right direction,” Le Roux said in BCCI.
“It’s a versatile test. You can do it anywhere on any land, even when traveling. This makes it practical.
Le Roux, passionate of becoming the best versions of themselves, has a long -term relationship with the Indian team. In 2002-03, when the team was under the coaching of John Wright, he was part of Indian coaching.
“For me, two things are most important: Passion for strength and fitness and passion for helping players to improve to show off their skills. This passion for physical preparation in combination with my long-term connection with the Indian team-is really motivated by almost two decades.”
Difference between bronco and yo-yo
The YO-YO test has been a key part of the Indian fitness regime since 2017, introduced by former power coach Shankar Basu led by Virat Kohli. The test included running between two cones located 20 meters apart, with a pace to increase at every level. Players are allowed a 10 -second recovery period after each 40 meter. You want to go through, a minimum score of 17.1 is required.
While YO-YO test focused on interval regeneration and agility, the bronco test is designed to assess continuous aerobic endurance. Together, these two tests offer a more comprehensive rating of overall fitness players.
The Le Roux target with the Indian team
Adrian Le Roux believes that cricket game has developed significantly over the years, one of the most important changes is the total volume of matches that are needed by modern players. Its primary goal, says, is to ensure that players are physically ready to manage the requirements of this wrapped schedule and continue their peak.
According to Le Roux, while cricket is essentially a sport of skills, roles of strength and fitness to support and strengthen this skill. It focuses on helping players to expand their careers, remain without injury and maintain consistent performance. He emphasizes that physical preparation not only improves the output, but also helps players to better take care of their bodies over time.
“My first task after returning to the team was a tour of England – five test matches, a fantastic challenge. I was impressed by the work ethics and fighting the players showed. It was the honor of being part of this campaign,” Le Roux said.
“We have now changed the formats, which brings a different challenge. Fortunately, I have worked in the IPL for many years and I knew most of the players. So even if it is a new settings, many faces are familiar – and it helps build continuity,” he concluded.
India enjoyed a good break after their Opener Asia Cup against SAE 10. September. Pakistan will participate in the next group match on 14 September.
– ends
Published:
Kingshuk Kusari
Published on:
September 12, 2025
