Former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary has made a stunning claim, alleging that the new Bronco Test has been introduced to sideline ODI captain Rohit Sharma. The explosive statement questions the intent behind the BCCI’s new fitness benchmark.
August 29, 2025: Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary has made a shocking assertion that the new Bronco Test was brought in on purpose to keep veteran players like Rohit Sharma off the team. This revelation has caused a lot of controversy in Indian cricket. Adrian Le Roux, India’s strength and conditioning coach, oversaw the introduction of the fitness test. It adds a new level to the already existing Yo-Yo and 2-kilometer time trial criteria.
Tiwary told Crictracker that he wasn’t sure if Rohit Sharma would be on the team for the 2027 World Cup. “I don’t think they will look at Rohit Sharma in the big picture,” he remarked. “I think this Bronco Test, which came out a few days ago, is for players like Rohit Sharma.” Someone who I think they don’t want to be on the team in the future. And that’s why it was made.
The former captain of Bengal also asked why the test was put into place when it was, which was said to be after worries about players’ stamina during India’s recent five-Test tour of England. He made a strong comparison to the Yo-Yo Test, which he said was used to put “great legends like Gambhir, Sehwag, and Yuvraj” on the sidelines after India won the 2011 World Cup.
The Bronco Test is a fitness test that is often used in rugby. It is high-intensity and focuses on endurance. The Bronco Test is different from the Yo-Yo Test since it is a continuous shuttle run of 20, 40, and 60 meters that is done five times without a break. The players have to run a total of 1,200 meters, and the best ones should be able to do it in about six minutes.
Tiwary said that if Rohit doesn’t get in better shape, he could be “stopped at the Bronco Test.” The shocking assertions come at a time when Indian cricket is going through a change, with increased emphasis on fitness and endurance. For example, only fast bowler Mohammed Siraj was able to play all five matches during the tough England tour.