Bracewell serves a month ban after testing positive for cocaine use

New Zealand pacer Doug Bracewell has served a one-month antedated ban from cricket after being found using cocaine. The Kiwi cricketer had tested positive for the banned substance earlier this year after a T20 game between Central Stage and Wellington. The 34-year-old had bagged the Player of the Match award for figures of 2/21 with the ball in hand while also scoring a quickfire 30 with the bat.   

Te Kaha Raunui, the Sports Integrity Commission hit Bracewell with the ban. However, it was also found that the consumption of crack was before the commencement of the competition and hence, handed a reduced sentence. The sentence which was initially for three months was reduced to one month after the fast bowler completed a treatment programme to deal with substance use. 

The one-month ban was backdated to April 2024, meaning the bowler has already completed his sentence, thus allowing him to continue playing cricket at any given instance.   

Bracewell's last appearance for the Black Caps came against Sri Lanka in March 2023 in a Test match at Wellington. He has played 28 Tests, 21 ODIs and 20 T20Is for his nation.