Gautam Gambhir highlights the importance of fitness in cricket
We all know that the history of cricket began with Tests, followed by the ODIs, which made the sport competitive. However, with the arrival of T20, cricket has become more competitive than ever. Meanwhile, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir feels that besides being competitive, the sport has even become physical, demanding an extreme level of fitness. Here is more on why he feels so.
Arrival of T20 has made fitness more important
Speaking on the topic, Gambhir said that while fitness was not a priority during the initial days, when the sport came into existence, the arrival of T20 has made it of utmost importance. "When I started playing cricket, there was no T20 cricket. But, if now you are not physically fit, I do not think you can do well in any format," he said.
BCCI prioritizing fitness by making Yo-Yo Tests mandatory
As about fitness, the BCCI has already made it their number one priority. Meanwhile, in order to keep up with the fitness, the Yo-Yo- Test has been introduced by the BCCI, in order to maintain a regular and tough fitness for the players, considering the busy international calendar. While players can take a break whenever they want, passing the Yo-Yo Test is mandatory.
What is Yo-Yo Test?
The Yo-Yo Test is an aerobic exercise, which usually falls under the category of endurance training. Developed by Danish football physiologist Jens Bangsbo, the test involves players running between two cones, set apart 20 meters on level ground. The player starts on a beep and has to reach the second cone on the next beep, before returning back prior to the third beep.
Gambhir also urges girls to take up the sport
While competition in the sport is at its best, Gambhir feels it should not just be limited to men, but women too should start considering taking up the sport. "If girls take up any sport, it is a big step towards our vision of making a sporting country. I would want girls to take cricket as seriously as men take it," he added.
Gambhir hails women's cricket success in the country so far
"If you look at the current women's team, they have played World Cup semi-finals and before that, they have been runner up of the World Cup. It is a very good sign for the country," Gambhir concluded, as he spoke during an event in Patna.
