A new fitness test, the Bronco Test, is being introduced for Indian cricketers. Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary has made a surprising statement regarding this test. Tiwary claims that the decision to implement the rugby-style Bronco Test is a move to potentially exclude players like Rohit Sharma from the team. Rohit Sharma is 38 years old and aims to play until the 2027 World Cup. However, if he fails the Bronco Test, his place in the team could be in jeopardy. Tiwary’s comments suggest the test is designed to make it difficult for older players to maintain their positions.
Tiwary, in an interview with Crictracker, stated that the Bronco Test will create challenges for ODI captain Rohit Sharma. He added that while it would be difficult to exclude Virat Kohli from the 2027 World Cup plans, he doubts if Rohit will be included, based on the current developments in Indian cricket. He believes that the Bronco Test, introduced recently, targets players like Rohit Sharma and others the team management may not want in the team in the future.
Tiwary further explained that the Bronco Test is a challenging fitness test. He questioned the timing of its introduction, asking why it wasn’t launched earlier when the new head coach took charge. He wondered about the origin and implementation of this test, stating that if Rohit Sharma doesn’t work hard on his fitness, this test would be a hurdle for him.
The Bronco Test, used in rugby, is considered more difficult than the Yo-Yo test. It involves multiple shuttle runs of 20 meters, 40 meters, and 60 meters, which players must complete within a set time. Andrew Leipus, the strength and conditioning coach for the Indian team, suggested the test to encourage fast bowlers and other players to focus more on running than gym work.
