A lot of legendary players would have failed Yo-Yo test, focus was on skills in those days: Virender Sehwag

In January, the Board of Cricket Council of India (BCCI) reintroduced the Yo-Yo fitness test and Dexa (bone scan test) among the eligibility criteria for selection in the Indian cricket team. Meanwhile, Legendary India opener Virender Sehwag has made a startling comment regarding the Yo-Yo test.

While speaking to News18, Sehwag took a dig at the apex body of Indian cricket and said that if the Yo-Yo test would have been mandatory earlier, then many legendary players wouldn't have been a part of the team. He went on to say that if the selectors are looking for good runners, then they can let players run marathons.

“There was a trend in the Indian team that if you fail the Yo-Yo test, you won't get a chance. 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," Sehwag said.

“During that time, the 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," he added.

Skill is more important: Virender Sehwag

Sehwag further said that skill is more important to play the game. He also said that during his time, all players focused on improving skills, whether it was fielding, bowling, or batting. The 44-year-old added that the players should focus on their skills rather than weightlifting in the gym as it might cause injury issues.

"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," he concluded.

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