New Zealand fast bowler Doug Bracewell has completed a one-month ban from cricket after testing positive for cocaine. The 34-year-old was tested following a Super Smash match in January 2024, where he was named Player of the Match for an impactful performance, scoring 30 runs off 11 balls and delivering a spell of 2-21 in Central Districts’ six-wicket victory over Wellington.
Initially handed a three-month suspension in April 2024, Bracewell’s penalty was reduced to one month after he successfully completed a treatment program. According to the Sport Integrity Commission, the substance use occurred outside competition, confirming it was not taken as a performance-enhancing drug.
Doug Bracewell eligible to return after serving one-month suspension and treatment program
Rebecca Rolls, Chief Executive of the Sport Integrity Commission, commented on the broader implications of substance use:
“It’s not always known what’s in these substances or their strength, which makes them unpredictable and dangerous. Their use is a serious issue at all levels of sport and recreation, and we want to work with both sports organizations and athletes to tackle this problem.”
New Zealand Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink expressed the board’s support for Bracewell, stating:
“Doug accepts full responsibility for his error of judgement; the consequences of his behaviour, and the penalty imposed. As an organisation, we will continue to provide support for Doug – who is fully aware of our expectations moving forward.”
Bracewell, who debuted for New Zealand in 2011, last represented the national team in early 2023 during a Test series against Sri Lanka. He has not played competitive cricket since March 2024, when he featured in a Plunket Shield game for Central Districts.
The seasoned pacer now aims to rebuild his career and make a strong return to domestic cricket.
