New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly introduced stricter fitness standards for Indian cricketers in an effort to improve player conditioning and reduce recurring injuries. According to a report by The Times of India, the board has revised the benchmark for the Bronco fitness test, making it more challenging for players seeking selection in the national team.

Under the revised guidelines, players will now be required to complete the 1,200-metre Bronco Test within 5 minutes and 15 to 20 seconds, compared to the earlier benchmark of around six minutes. The board has also introduced a 2-kilometre running test, with players expected to finish the distance within 9 to 10 minutes. These new standards are expected to become the primary benchmarks for evaluating match fitness, replacing the Yo-Yo test that had been widely used over the past several years.

The changes have reportedly been recommended by the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru after concerns over increasing injury cases and declining fitness levels among players. Officials believe that maintaining higher physical standards will help reduce injuries and improve overall athletic performance across formats.

Along with the revised fitness tests, the BCCI has also established fresh baseline parameters aimed at improving coordination between the national team's medical staff, strength and conditioning experts and the Centre of Excellence. The objective is to ensure that fitness assessments are carried out more consistently before players are cleared for international duty.

According to the report, the board has reviewed several recent injury cases and concluded that fitness standards were not always enforced uniformly. Sources indicated that in some instances, players received clearance despite not being fully match fit. These concerns have prompted the BCCI to tighten its monitoring process and adopt a stricter approach going forward.

The report also referred to fast bowler Harshit Rana and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, whose fitness clearances reportedly became a subject of internal discussion. Harshit was sent back during India's England tour after concerns over his physical condition. Team officials reportedly believed his body weight was above the desired level. The Centre of Excellence has now set a target weight of under 96 kilograms, and reports suggest he has already reduced his weight to around 94 kilograms, bringing him closer to full fitness.

The BCCI has also reportedly sought explanations from the national team's medical department following repeated injury setbacks over the past year. Concerns have been raised after several players suffered muscle strains and cramps even while playing in favourable overseas conditions.

Sources indicate that the board has asked team physiotherapist Kamlesh Jain to immediately report any decline in a player's fitness regardless of seniority or reputation. The management is believed to have observed that some senior players have experienced reduced mobility on the field and have struggled while running between the wickets during long innings.

Kamlesh Jain has been serving as India's team physiotherapist since 2022, after succeeding Nitin Patel.

Another issue highlighted in the report is the coordination between the Centre of Excellence and the Indian team management. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who was expected to recover in time for the opening Test against Sri Lanka, reportedly could not achieve the required fitness level within the projected timeline, leading to his absence from the series opener.

Some centrally contracted players were also reportedly surprised after being introduced to the revised fitness parameters shortly before the Sri Lanka tour. Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, according to the report, encountered the updated Bronco and 2K running tests during his visit to the Centre of Excellence before the tour.

The board has now advised even players who are not part of the current Test squad to begin training according to the revised fitness benchmarks so that future assessments remain uniform across all formats.

While the stricter standards are intended to improve player fitness, experts have also cautioned against excessive physical workload. Reports suggest that players are now undergoing repeated Bronco, Yo-Yo and endurance tests more frequently than before. Sports science specialists believe that overtraining without adequate recovery can increase both physical fatigue and mental burnout, potentially raising the risk of injuries rather than preventing them.

During India's successful campaigns in the 2023 ODI World Cup, 2024 T20 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy, player workload was reportedly managed more carefully, with fitness tests generally conducted only during injury rehabilitation or at scheduled intervals.

The revised policy signals the BCCI's intention to place greater emphasis on long-term fitness management as Indian cricket prepares for a packed international calendar over the coming years.

Team India received a timely boost on Tuesday as star players Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya were declared fully fit for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. Both cricketers, who endured injury setbacks during the IPL 2026 season, have cleared fitness assessments at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

The development ends uncertainty over their participation and strengthens India’s squad depth ahead of the bilateral series, expected to begin later this week.

Fitness Clearance After Tough IPL

Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya missed several matches for Mumbai Indians during the recently concluded IPL due to fitness concerns. Rohit sat out seven games with a hamstring issue before making a strong comeback, scoring a brisk half-century. Pandya too battled niggles that limited his involvement.

Following the IPL, both reported to the BCCI’s CoE for rehabilitation. Sources confirmed they completed all required tests under the supervision of the Sports Science and medical teams. Officials have now given them the green light to return to competitive cricket.

Rohit’s Recovery Path

The former India captain’s clearance comes as a relief for fans and the team management. Known for his leadership and big-match temperament, Rohit has a rich legacy, including leading Mumbai Indians to multiple IPL titles and guiding India to major white-ball triumphs.

His recent return during the IPL, despite the injury layoff, showed promising signs. With the ODI series providing an important assignment before bigger challenges, Rohit’s experience at the top will be crucial.

Pandya Completes Demanding Sessions

Hardik Pandya, who arrived at the CoE on June 2 after a brief holiday abroad, underwent intensive training over the next few days. According to a source close to the development, the all-rounder participated in multiple match simulation drills and bowled his full quota of 10 overs without any discomfort.

“Hardik was on a holiday abroad before he checked in at the CoE on June 2. Over the next five days, he did several match simulations and even bowled (full quota of) 10 overs,” the source told PTI. His fitness parameters were found satisfactory by the strength and conditioning coaches.

Bowling Workload Boosts Hopes

One of the most encouraging aspects of Pandya’s recovery is his ability to complete bowling spells during training. This indicates he is prepared for the physical demands of 50-over cricket. As a genuine all-rounder, Pandya offers balance to the Indian side with his medium-pace bowling and explosive batting in the middle and death overs.

India’s assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak had earlier voiced confidence in Pandya’s progress. The latest medical clearance reinforces that optimism and gives the team management valuable flexibility in team combination.

Uncertain Travel Plans

It remains unclear whether Hardik Pandya will join the squad for the under-lights training session in Chandigarh or travel directly to Dharamsala, the likely venue for the series. Team officials are expected to finalise plans shortly.

Significance for Indian Cricket

The return of Rohit and Hardik comes at an important phase for Indian white-ball cricket. Afghanistan have grown stronger in limited-overs formats, and the series offers India a chance to fine-tune strategies and combinations. The presence of senior players like Rohit and Pandya will not only boost morale but also provide guidance to younger members of the squad.

For Rohit, this series could mark another step in his carefully managed workload management. Pandya, meanwhile, will be keen to regain full match rhythm and cement his place as a key all-rounder.

Local cricket enthusiasts in the host cities are eagerly awaiting the series, which promises competitive action. With both stars now available, India head into the contest with a stronger hand.

What Lies Ahead

The BCCI is expected to announce the squad and detailed itinerary soon. Fans will closely watch how quickly the duo integrates into the playing XI and whether their return translates into match-winning performances.

RCB Stars Light Up Dance Floor After Title Win

Two days after Royal Challengers Bengaluru clinched their second successive IPL title, Virat Kohli and Bhuvneshwar Kumar were seen dancing together in a joyful, unscripted moment that has taken social media by storm. Kohli shared the Instagram story on Monday evening, showing both players performing the traditional 'Kikli' dance, holding hands and moving energetically to the folk song. The clip quickly went viral, capturing the lighter side of the high-pressure cricketers.

The celebrations came after RCB defeated Gujarat Titans by five wickets in the IPL 2026 final on May 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With this win, RCB joined an elite list as only the third team to secure back-to-back Indian Premier League titles.

Kohli and Kumar Set Dance Floor on Fire

In the video, Kohli, the former RCB captain often called 'King Kohli', and seasoned pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar looked relaxed and jubilant. They were spotted laughing and syncing steps in the simple yet energetic Punjabi folk dance. The moment reflected the strong team bond that helped RCB lift the trophy after years of near-misses.

Fans flooded social media with reactions, praising the camaraderie between the 37-year-old Kohli and 36-year-old Kumar. Many noted how the dance offered a refreshing break from the intensity of the tournament.

Bhuvneshwar's Remarkable Fitness Transformation

While the dance video grabbed headlines for its entertainment value, Kumar’s on-field performance this season drew equal admiration. The swing bowler emerged as the highest wicket-taking Indian in IPL 2026 with 28 scalps. He consistently touched speeds of 139-140 kmph, a significant achievement at his age.

According to his personal trainer Surya Prakash Yadav, Kumar’s resurgence stems from a disciplined fitness overhaul. Three years ago, the Uttar Pradesh pacer was battling recurring back, knee, and ankle injuries, with his body fat percentage hovering near 20%. He has since brought it down to 13-14%, while maintaining a body weight of 73-74 kg. The focus was on converting fat into muscle through targeted strength training.

Heavy Lifting Powers Pace Comeback

Kumar’s training numbers tell an inspiring story. He has progressed from squatting just 40 kg to comfortably handling 110-120 kg in the gym. This strength gain translated directly into his bowling. He bowled with renewed zip and control throughout the season, often troubling batters with late swing.

Beyond raw pace, Kumar introduced the ‘wobble seam’ delivery as a new weapon. The ball holds its line initially before deviating unpredictably, making it tough for batters to read. He also rediscovered his effective backspin, enhancing his traditional swing skills.

Strict Diet and Daily Dedication

Kumar’s transformation wasn’t limited to the gym. He follows a strict diet, completely cutting out sweets and consuming nearly double his body weight in protein daily. His regular intake includes protein shakes, bars, homemade chillas, and eggs.

Away from cameras, the veteran dedicates five to seven hours each day to cricket-specific training and fitness. He also spends one to one-and-a-half hours daily working on his batting. This all-round commitment was evident earlier when, despite a viral infection during the UP T20 League that left him needing glucose on the field, he returned the next day to play.

When asked about his drive, Kumar reportedly said, “I love cricket, I love bowling. That's why I play.”

Injury Prevention and Longevity

The results are visible. By building core strength, Kumar has minimised the injuries that once threatened his career. His story offers hope to many senior athletes looking to extend their professional journey through smart conditioning rather than just youthful energy.

Fan Reactions and Team Spirit

The viral 'Kikli' video has been widely shared among cricket fans across India, especially in Bengaluru and Kumar’s home state of Uttar Pradesh. It humanised two of the game’s most dedicated professionals and highlighted the joy of success after months of hard work.

As the IPL season concludes, both players have shown that age need not be a barrier when passion and preparation align. With the T20 World Cup and other international commitments on the horizon, fans will be watching if Kumar can carry this form forward and whether Kohli continues to inspire with both bat and presence.

The celebrations may have just begun, but the groundwork for such success was clearly laid long before the final at Ahmedabad.