Former India opener Virender Sehwag has expressed his views on the mandatory Yo-Yo test and Dexa (bone scan test) that have been reintroduced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as part of the selection process. He has suggested that many legendary players would not have made it to the Indian team if these tests were mandatory during his time. Sehwag has highlighted that the focus during his time was on skills rather than running ability, and questioned whether being a good runner was a prerequisite for playing cricket.
“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.”
Sehwag has further stated that players should prioritize their skills over weightlifting in the gym, as weightlifting exercises can lead to injury issues. He acknowledged that while the gym can be beneficial for improving a player’s career span, it is not necessary for everyone. He believes that players should listen to their body and not push themselves too hard, especially if they have concerns such as back issues or knee problems. For Sehwag, skill remains the most important factor.
“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,” added Viru.
On January 1st, 2023, the BCCI conducted a review meeting to evaluate Team India’s performance in 2022. As a result of this meeting, the BCCI decided to reintroduce the Yo-Yo fitness test as a mandatory eligibility criterion for selecting the Indian squad. This test was a requirement for selection before the COVID-19 pandemic when Virat Kohli was the captain, as the team management emphasized the importance of having physically fit players on the field.
