Dexa scan introduced by BCCI; know more about the new selection criteria

Dexa scan introduce by BCCI [Source: Associated Press]

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to re-introduce the Yo-Yo test and Dexa scan results as a major criteria for selection in the Indian team, according to a review meeting held in Mumbai on Sunday.

With several players out injured, BCCI has taken this drastic step to curb the injuries.

While Yo-Yo was previously introduced as a test of aerobic endurance fitness that involves running between markers placed 20 metres apart at increasing speeds. The Dexa is said to help the athletes to measure the lean muscle mass, body fat percentage, water content, and bone density of the players.

Know more about Dexa scan

It is also known as dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scan, which uses X-ray technology to measure mineral content and bone strength of players. The test generally focuses on two areas of the body: the hip and the spine, and in some cases the forearm, which are most susceptible to getting a fracture in the body.

Ramji Srinivasan, former strength and conditioning coach of the Indian side during the 2011 World Cup win and 2013 Champions Trophy told to Indianexpress that:

“It helps you understand where the fat is and whether the training methods are yielding the result. It is all linked to a cycle. It is part of testing protocols that should have become mandatory long back. 

Some teams have been doing this for 10 years. It is a fool-proof method. Skinfold can be manipulated and each time different results can show up. But with Dexa it will be uniform and the data will be used for the future as well.”

How does the test help?

The test helps to diagnose Osteoporosis (or decrease in bone mineral density) that is responsible for the weakening of bones, making them injury prone.

According to the results, the treatment plan is decided for a player and is being constantly monitored.

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