Doug Bracewell serves backdated one-month ban after positive cocaine test

New Zealand fast-bowler Doug Bracewell has served a one-month backdated suspension from cricket after testing positive for cocaine earlier this year. The 34-year-old was found to have consumed the banned substance following a T20 game between the Central Stags and Wellington in January 2024.

In that match, Bracewell was awarded Player of the Match for an outstanding performance, claiming figures of 2 for 21 with the ball and smashing 30 runs off just 11 deliveries.

The Sports Integrity Commission Te Kahu Raunui issued the ban, stating that the cocaine use occurred before the tournament began. As a result, Bracewell's initial three-month suspension was reduced to one month after he completed a treatment program addressing substance use.

The suspension was backdated to April 2024, meaning Bracewell has already served his ban and is eligible to return to cricket immediately.

Bracewell, who last played for New Zealand in a Test match against Sri Lanka in Wellington in March 2023, has represented his country 69 times across all formats, including 28 Tests, 21 ODIs, and 20 T20Is.