Over the years, there have been a lot of debates around the Yo-Yo test – a mandatory parameter set by the BCCI and the Indian team management for a place in the national side.
The instances of players failing the test and getting snubbed from the team have only proved how serious the BCCI and the Indian team management are about fitness.
While the majority of fans and cricket experts have supported this firm stance on fitness, some of the former players reckon it is unfair on players to get dropped from the side on the basis of just the Yo-Yo test.
Recently, former India opener Virender Sehwag shared his two cents on Yo-Yo test, saying it should never take precedence over skill improvement.
Sehwag further claimed that several Indian legends would have failed to clear the test during his time and hence wouldn’t be part of the national team.
“There was a trend in the Indian team that if you fail Yo-Yo test, you won’t get a chance," Sehwag said while speaking during News18 India Chaupal. “If this was the case during our time, then a lot of legendary players wouldn’t have been part of the team because they would have failed the Yo-Yo test."
“During that time, focus was on skills. Who will win you matches: One who performs well or the one who runs better? If you want good runners, then have them run marathons, no need to play cricket. That’s what I believe."
“Time has changed. During our time, the focus was on practicing and improving skills be it fielding, bowling or batting. Gym may help me in improving my career span and it’s important but it’s different for everyone. If body permits weightlifting, then do it. But if you have concerns, be it back issue, knee problem, then there should be a limit. Skill is more important," he added.
After conducting a review meeting for Team India’s performance in 2022 on 1st January 2023, the BCCI decided to reintroduce the Yo-Yo fitness test as eligibility criteria for selecting the Indian squad.
This test was a norm to be picked in the Indian team before the COVID-19 pandemic when Virat Kohli was the captain, with the keenness of having fitter players out there in the park.
“The Yo-Yo Test and Dexa will now be part of selection criteria and implemented in the customized roadmaps of the central pool of players," a statement from the BCCI read.
