What is DEXA scan that will determine Indian cricketer’s fitness? Experts view

Yo-Yo test and DEXA grabbed a lot of headlines on Sunday evening as BCCI reintroduced both the crucial test in their selection criteria. The review meeting which was held to examine India’s horrific show at T20 World Cup 2022, discussed several issues like workload management, fitness concerns and picked twenty players which will be part of the scheme of things for the ODI World Cup.

The Yo-Yo test has been widely discussed and written but DEXA test became a matter of thought for many as little understanding and knowledge was available about the highly-anticipated test which will now determine the selection for the Indian cricket team.  

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However, Ramji Srinivasan, the former Strength and Conditioning coach of the Indian team that won the World Cup in 2011 and Champions Trophy in 2013 believes things are evolving ‘pretty fast’ and to keep up the pace with the trend, over reliance on Yo-Yo test will not do, but a skill-based programme should also be introduced.

While speaking to Indian Express, Mr. Srinivasan revealed that he had recommended the DEXA scan tests to the BCCI and the NCA in 2011 because of the overall increase in the number of matches being played in a year.

“Through DEXA tests, trainers will be able to measure body fat percentage, lean muscle mass, water content and bone density,” said Mr. Srinivasan.

“It helps you understand where the fat is and whether the training methods are yielding the result. It is all linked to a cycle. It is part of testing protocols which should have become mandatory long back,” added Mr. Srinivasan.

He also claimed that there are many teams which have been using the DEXA scan for the last ten years as it is a fool-proof method. “Skinfold can be manipulated and each time different results can show up, but with DEXA it will be uniform and the data will be used for the future as well,” Ramji concluded.

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