The Indian cricket team introduced the Bronco Test as the new benchmark in fitness ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. The team scrapped the Yo-Yo Test, which was used till now to measure the fitness standards of the Indian team.
In the latest video from the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), the team’s strength and conditioning coach Adrian Le Roux took a deep dive into the test and how it helps the Indian cricket team build their strength, which in turn helps them to avoid injuries.
According to media reports, Le Roux was instrumental in bringing about the change in the team’s fitness drills. Le Roux reportedly 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.
Speaking in the video, Le Roux explained that the Bronco Test was not anything new in the fitness world and has been used for several years in different sporting cultures.
WHAT IS THE BRONCO TEST?
used to assess a player’s endurance, speed, and overall cardiovascular fitness. It consists of shuttle runs over 20, 40, and 60 meters. One complete set includes all three distances, and players must complete five sets in succession – covering a total of 1,200 meters – without any rest. The benchmark time to complete the test is under six minutes.
Several Indian players recently took the test at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, and again after arriving in Dubai for the Asia Cup 2025.
The fitness drill was introduced to the Indian setup on the recommendation of Adrian Le Roux, who returned as the team’s strength and conditioning coach in June 2025. Le Roux previously served in the same role from January 2002 to May 2003 and has also worked with Cricket South Africa and IPL teams such as Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings.
WHY BRONCO TEST?
According to Adrian Le Roux, the Bronco Test helps the coaches better understand the status of the player in terms of aerobic fitness. Another reason behind using it is that the Bronco Test can be executed in any outdoor condition.
“There are two main reasons we use it. First, it serves as a training mechanism. Second, it’s a good measurement tool – it helps us track where the players are in terms of aerobic fitness and whether we’re moving in the right direction,” Le Roux said in the BCCI video.
“It’s a versatile test. You can do it anywhere, on any ground, even while travelling. That makes it practical. Players can also use it to assess themselves – it’s very functional and portable,” he added.
Passionate about making people the best versions of themselves, Le Roux has a long-standing relationship with the Indian team. He was a part of the Indian coaching set-up way back in 2002-03 when the team was under the coaching of John Wright.
“For me, two things matter the most: a passion for strength and conditioning, and a passion for helping players get better so they can showcase their skills. That passion for physical preparation, combined with my long-standing connection with the Indian team – it goes back nearly two decades – really motivates me.”
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BRONCO AND YO-YO
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 involved 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 focused 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.
LE ROUX’S GOAL WITH THE INDIAN TEAM
Adrian Le Roux believes that the game of cricket has evolved significantly over the years, with one of the most notable changes being the sheer volume of matches modern players are required to play. His primary objective, he says, is to ensure that players are physically prepared to handle the demands of this packed schedule and continue performing at their peak.
According to Le Roux, while cricket is fundamentally a sport of skill, the role of strength and conditioning is to support and enhance that skill. His focus is on helping players extend their careers, stay injury-free, and maintain consistent performance. He stresses that physical preparation not only improves output but also helps players take better care of their bodies over time.
“My first assignment after returning to the team was the tour of England – five Test matches, a fantastic challenge. I was impressed by the work ethic and the fight shown by the players. It was an honour to be part of that campaign,” Le Roux said.
“Now we’ve switched formats, which brings a different challenge. Fortunately, I’ve worked in the IPL for many years and know most of the players. So even though it’s a new setup, many of the faces are familiar – and that helps build continuity,” he concluded.
India enjoyed a good break after their Asia Cup opener against UAE on September 10. They will take on Pakistan in their next group match on September 14.