Cricket has changed, over the last few years. Especially, the way it is being played now, thanks to the IPL. The game has become fast, with more focus on positive intent – be it with bat, ball, or in the field. One more aspect, where cricket has evolved is fitness.
Slow fielders, poor runners between the wickets, and lethargic movers in the field – that’s a thing of the past now. The franchise is now on the lookout for fit players, raring to go, from ball one, and maintain similar energy till the end of the match.
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Here’s a compilation of some of the fittest cricketers across the IPL from all the teams below. Decide who is the winner at the conclusion.
Sunrisers Hyderabad
The Sunrisers Hyderabad have been breathing fire in IPL 2024 with their top order scoring the bulk of runs. Apart from having the number one top order, they also have the number one fitness game. Their Captain, Pat Cummins himself is the biggest inspiration for their team with regards to fitness.
Apart from Cummins, Travis Head is famous for his aggressive style and athletic ability. Head’s strong hits and fast running between the wickets require great core strength and stamina. His quick reactions in the field and amazing catches show how committed he is to staying fit.
2. Royal Challengers Bengaluru
The trio of K.G.F (Kohli, Glenn, Faf) need to be the usual suspects when it comes to anything related to RCB. And the same is the case when we talk about fitness. Virat Kohli is the top and fittest cricketer in the world.
This Indian right-handed batsman follows a strict diet and fitness routine to stay in shape for his matches. Virat also has a structured gym and exercise regimen to keep his body toned and active.
Similarly, there is no secret when it comes to Faf Du Plessis’s and Glen Maxwell’s fitness. Both batters have developed a lean posture due to their control over fatty and oily diets and focus more on cardio training like running and high altitude training.
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3. Mumbai Indians
Rohit Sharma may look bulky, however, he possesses a great level of fitness skills. Rohit Sharma maintains his fitness with a balanced diet and regular workouts, enhancing his performance on the field.
Suryakumar Yadav is known for his agility and strength, thanks to his disciplined fitness routine and dedication to physical training. Tim David’s muscle power is nothing new to the fans. His bones and long legs make him strong, fit, and flexible on the field.
4. Chennai Super Kings
M.S. Dhoni, renowned for his lightning-fast reflexes and exceptional wicket-keeping skills, has always emphasized fitness as a crucial part of his cricket career. His workout routine focuses on core strength, agility, and stamina, allowing him to perform consistently at the highest level.
Ravindra Jadeja, known for his all-round abilities, maintains his peak fitness through a rigorous training regimen that includes cardio, strength training, and agility drills. His athleticism is evident in his quick running between the wickets, sharp fielding, and powerful hitting, making him one of the fittest cricketers in the world.
5. Kolkata Knight Riders
KKR boasts some of the fittest players in their lineup. With the likes of Mitchell Starc, Shreyas Iyer, and Manish Pandey in the squad, KKR looks one fit team in IPL 2024. Not to forget, Manish Pandey, often considered a dark horse has left Virat Kohli behind in yo-yo tests a couple of times during the selections in the past.
Shreyas Iyer has seen a massive improvement in his fitness in the last couple of years. His back spasms have reduced and he has been able to deliver throughout the season. Mitchell Starc gets his chiseled physique due to his daily cardio workouts and diet. The most expensive player in IPL history has been able to hit the timber quite a few times in IPL 2024.
Fitness has become a key factor in the success of IPL franchises in 2024. Each of these franchises demonstrates superior fitness and contributes significantly to their competitive edge in the IPL.
