Bengaluru, India – Indian cricketers Ishan Kishan and Riyan Parag have reported to the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru to undergo routine fitness assessment tests. The assessments are a standard procedure for players and often precede significant squad selections, with several prominent cricketers recently undergoing similar evaluations.
Key Players Undergo Crucial Evaluations
The fitness assessments at the CoE are a vital part of a cricketer’s preparation, ensuring they meet the stringent physical demands of international and domestic cricket. Ishan Kishan and Riyan Parag join a list of Indian players who have recently been at the Bengaluru facility for their evaluations. All-rounder Hardik Pandya, for instance, underwent his fitness test at the CoE on August 11 and 12, ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. Similarly, Shreyas Iyer completed his fitness tests between July 27 and 29.
These rigorous tests, which can include physical conditioning checks, strength tests, and match-readiness assessments, are conducted under the supervision of the BCCI’s medical and physiotherapy teams.
The Importance of Fitness in Modern Cricket
In modern cricket, maintaining peak fitness is non-negotiable, particularly for players who participate across all three formats of the game. The demands of a packed international and domestic schedule necessitate continuous monitoring and improvement of physical conditioning. Ishan Kishan, known for his explosive batting and wicket-keeping, adheres to a rigorous fitness and nutrition regimen, incorporating strength training, agility exercises, and a balanced diet. His routine includes cardio, sprint intervals, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to maintain peak performance.
Riyan Parag, despite his young age, has also been recognized for his commitment to fitness. He follows a strict routine that includes cardio, mobility, and stretching, aiming to consistently improve his physical conditioning. Parag has often cited Virat Kohli as a key motivator for his fitness goals, striving to meet the high standards set within the Indian team.
Implications for Upcoming Selections
While the exact reasons for Kishan and Parag’s assessments were not explicitly detailed, such routine checks are often a precursor to squad announcements for major tournaments. With the Asia Cup 2025 commencing on September 9, and the T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon, the BCCI’s focus on player fitness is paramount for team selection and overall performance. These assessments help the team management and selectors gauge a player’s readiness for competitive cricket, especially after breaks or periods of rehabilitation.
