What is BCCI’s special fitness program to prepare players for the World Cup?

As the Indian cricket squad assembles for a crucial preparatory camp in Alur, Bangalore, ahead of the much-anticipated Asia Cup in Sri Lanka, the players are set to undergo a comprehensive fitness evaluation, including blood tests. In a bid to ensure peak physical condition and minimize injury risks in the lead-up to the World Cup, top players who were provided with a 13-day fitness program will be rigorously assessed to meet stringent fitness standards.

BCCI’s special 13 day program 

The rigorous fitness evaluation is a crucial step in the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) efforts to prioritize the health and performance of its players, particularly in a World Cup year. Given the history of injuries that have plagued the Indian team before major tournaments, the BCCI is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the squad’s readiness and resilience on the field.

Players who recently returned from the West Indies tour and are not participating in the ongoing three-match T20 series against Ireland have been tasked with following the 13-day fitness program. This includes prominent names such as captain Rohit Sharma, batting sensation Virat Kohli, dynamic all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, as well as fast bowlers Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj.

The meticulously crafted fitness program, spanning from August 9 to 22, was developed in collaboration with the National Cricket Academy’s (NCA) physiotherapists and trainers. It aims to comprehensively assess each player’s fitness levels and address any vulnerabilities that could potentially disrupt the team’s performance.

What are the key aspects of BCCI’s fitness program?

The program focuses on several key aspects, including strength and mobility, shoulder care, and glute muscle conditioning. Players are required to adhere strictly to designated gym sessions, walking and running routines, swimming, yoga practices, and regular massages. Dietary guidelines, including protein intake, have also been meticulously laid out. Tailored drills have been prescribed based on whether a player is a bowler or batsman.

An important element of the program is sleep, with players being advised to prioritize getting nine hours of rest each night. The comprehensive nature of the program is geared towards building a holistic approach to fitness that extends beyond the physical realm.

“This is a special program designed for players as we want them fit for the next two months. The trainer will come to know who has followed the program and who hasn’t. The team management will then take a call on what to do with players who have not followed their program,” a BCCI official stated.

The BCCI’s emphasis on meticulous preparation and injury prevention underscores the significance of maintaining player well-being as a cornerstone of success. 

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