BCCI Eyes Kohli-Era Fitness Rules: Yo-Yo Test, Travel Policies May Return Amid Team India’s Struggles

"To address complacency and improve discipline, BCCI considers reviving Kohli-era fitness standards and implementing stricter team travel and family policies."

January 16, 2025: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly planning to reintroduce fitness protocols from the Virat Kohli captaincy era, including the mandatory yo-yo fitness test. This potential U-turn comes in response to India’s recent struggles under head coach Gautam Gambhir.

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Yo-Yo Test and Fitness Standards

The yo-yo fitness test, which was previously a key criterion for team selection, had been phased out to reduce player injuries and accommodate a demanding travel schedule. However, a report by the Times of India suggests that the BCCI medical team is being urged to refocus on fitness criteria, ensuring players meet a baseline fitness standard.
"The focus had shifted to just injury prevention, and this has been taken lightly by some players. A return to fitness criteria is being considered to prevent complacency," a source told the publication.

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Other Proposed Changes

The BCCI is also exploring stricter regulations to enhance team discipline and performance:

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1. Travel Policy: Players will be required to travel with the team at all times, addressing recent instances of players opting for separate travel arrangements.
2. Family Restrictions: The presence of family members, especially during overseas assignments, is set to be curtailed to avoid distractions. Officials believe this move will ensure players maintain focus on their performance.

India’s Performance Under Scrutiny

India’s performance has been underwhelming on the international circuit since Gambhir’s appointment as head coach. The proposed measures are aimed at reinstating the high standards seen during Kohli’s tenure and rebuilding the team’s cohesion and discipline.

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Virat Kohli, BCCI, Team India Fitness, Yo-Yo Test, Gautam Gambhir, Indian Cricket, Team Discipline, Player Fitness Standards, Cricket Performance, BCCI Rules