The BCCI has introduced a second bone test to enhance fairness in junior cricket and address inaccuracies in age determination. This move addresses concerns over the accuracy of initial bone age assessments and reinforces fair play in age-group competitions.
BCCI Introduces Second Bone Test to Ensure Transparency in Junior Cricket
In a key reform, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has revised its Age Verification Programme (AVP) to ensure greater fairness in junior cricket. From the 2025 season onward, BCCI introduces second bone test for players whose initial bone age slightly exceeds the threshold 16 years for boys and 15 years for girls provided their official birth certificate still supports eligibility.
Previously, the BCCI relied solely on a single bone test conducted using an X-ray method. The result would be increased by one year to form the player’s “mathematical age.” If this adjusted age was still below the limit, the player could participate in age-restricted categories like Under-16. However, such players would automatically become ineligible the following year, regardless of their birth certificate.
Now, with this updated approach where BCCI introduces second bone test, players can request a retest if their birth certificate still shows them under the age limit. If the second test aligns with the eligibility criteria, they will be allowed to continue participating in the same age group.
This move acknowledges the scientific limitations of bone age assessment, which may not always yield precise results. By allowing a repeat test, the BCCI ensures deserving players aren’t disqualified unfairly due to possible testing errors.
The bone tests are conducted before each domestic season, typically in July and August, across all state associations. On average, 40–50 boys and 20–25 girls from each state undergo testing at BCCI-affiliated hospitals. To prevent fraud and impersonation where younger siblings were reportedly sent to take the test instead of actual players BCCI now mandates Aadhaar verification with photo ID before testing.
The BCCI introduces second bone test as part of its broader initiative to eliminate age fraud, improve credibility in age-group cricket, and protect genuine young talent.
FAQ
Q1: What is the new rule introduced by BCCI?
The BCCI introduces second bone test for junior players whose first test result conflicts with their birth certificate age.
Q2: Who is eligible for the second bone test?
Players whose first bone test indicates overage but whose birth certificate still falls within the age-group limit.
Q3: Why was this rule change needed?
To address the inaccuracy in bone testing and ensure fair chances for genuine players.
Q4: How is fraud being prevented during testing?
Players must present Aadhaar with a photo to confirm identity before the bone test.
Q5: When are these tests conducted?
Before every domestic season, generally between July and August.
