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Yo-Yo vs Bronco: Difference In Indian Cricket’s Physical Fitness Tests Explained

Sakshi Sharma

Yo-Yo vs Bronco (Source:@Entertales,x.com)Yo-Yo vs Bronco (Source:@Entertales,x.com)

In a recent development, the Indian cricket team is witnessing a significant shift in its fitness approach. Under the head coach Gautam Gambhir and strength and conditioning coach Adrian le Roux, the team has introduced the rugby-style Bronco Test, along with the Yo-Yo Test and 2-kilometre time trial.

Fitness has always been a vital aspect, and with the demands of modern cricket, it is now more important, especially for Indian players who now compete continuously across formats. Having said all this, in this article, let's take a look at the difference between the Yo-Yo Test and the Bronco Test.

What Is The Difference Between Yo-Yo Test & Bronco Test?

In 2017, the Yo-Yo Test was introduced under India's former strength and conditioning coach, Shankar Basu. It is vital to mention that this practice involves shuttle runs over 20 meters with 10-second recovery periods after every 40 meters. In this pattern, the player's sprint capacity and the recovery period can be tested.

Another talking point about the Yo-Yo Test is that it elaborates how efficiently and effectively a player can recover between sprints. It also focuses on anaerobic capacity and internal player recovery.

On the other hand, the main agenda of the Bronco Test is that it measures player's high-intensity endurance and longevity drill. In this test, the players follow a significant pattern and complete five sets of 20m, 40m, and 60m shuttle runs- a total of 1,200 metres non-stop, with no recovery breaks.

The Bronco Test showcase both aerobic endurance and mental resilience. This test also challenges a player’s ability to maintain high speed over time, test stamina and overall fitness.

With the Yo-Yo Test, Bronco Test, and the 2-kilometre time trial now forming a three-pronged fitness system for the Indian team, the BCCI is aiming for a more complete analysis of player readiness. 

 While the Yo-Yo remains the gold standard, the Bronco’s growing popularity suggests a more demanding fitness routine.