India’s ODI captain Rohit Sharma has silenced critics and stunned fans with a remarkable fitness transformation ahead of his international comeback. Set to return in the three-match ODI series against Australia in October 2025, the 38-year-old opener has impressed selectors, coaching staff, and fans alike with his leaner physique, weight loss journey, and successful completion of the BCCI’s newly introduced Bronco Test.
A Remarkable Fitness Journey
After guiding India to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 triumph earlier this year, where he was named Player of the Match in the final for his match-winning 76 (83), Rohit took a break from international cricket. During this period, he reportedly shed close to 20 kilograms, focusing on endurance, stamina, and strength.
Images of Rohit’s transformation—particularly his airport appearance in an all-black outfit—went viral on social media, sparking excitement about his comeback. Fans flooded platforms with messages praising his determination, hailing this as one of the most inspiring fitness transformations in Indian cricket.
Rohit Sharma Clears the Bronco Test
While the Yo-Yo Test has long been the BCCI’s standard for fitness evaluations, 2025 saw the introduction of the Bronco Test, a rugby-inspired drill designed to measure endurance. The test involves continuous shuttle runs—20m, 40m, and 60m distances repeated five times—covering 1,200 meters in under six minutes.
Rohit reportedly completed the test in just over five minutes, comfortably crossing the benchmark and impressing the coaching staff. His stamina and agility showcased not only his renewed fitness but also his readiness for the demanding cricketing calendar ahead.
Reports suggest his Yo-Yo score was 19.4, further highlighting his improved conditioning. The BCCI, however, has kept official Bronco Test scores confidential.
Why the Bronco Test Matters
For a senior cricketer like Rohit Sharma, clearing the Bronco Test is more than just meeting fitness standards—it’s a statement. Many critics had doubted whether he could meet the new, rigorous benchmarks introduced by the board. By passing the test with ease, Rohit has:
Proven his commitment to fitness and longevity in international cricket.
Silenced speculation about potential retirement due to age and fitness.
Sent a strong message that he remains a pivotal figure in India’s ODI setup.
The Bronco Test complements the Yo-Yo and 2km time trial, providing a more comprehensive measure of a player’s fitness. Its continuous nature makes it difficult to “shortcut,” ensuring authenticity in results.
Preparation for Australia Series and Beyond
Ahead of the Australia ODIs in October, Rohit may also feature in India A’s matches against Australia A in Kanpur on September 30, October 3, and 5. While official confirmation is awaited, his extended training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru suggests that he is leaving no stone unturned.
Other senior players like Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Washington Sundar, and Shardul Thakur also cleared their fitness tests, giving India a well-prepared squad for the busy season ahead.
Meanwhile, members of India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad, including Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, and Riyan Parag, were exempted from separate fitness tests due to their Duleep Trophy commitments.