New Zealand cricketer slapped with ban after testing positive for cocaine use

WELLINGTON: New Zealand all-rounder Doug Bracewell was handed a one-month ban from cricket after testing positive for cocaine, a prohibited drug. The 34-year-old tested positive for cocaine use following a stellar performance in a local T20 match in New Zealand. Although he was initially handed a three-month ban, it was later reduced to one month after he completed a treatment program. The one-month sanction is backdated to April 2024, which means Bracewell has already served his suspension and is now eligible to return to cricket.

Bracewell was made to undergo the drug test following the match between Wellington and Central Stags. Bracewell had delivered an impressive all-round performance in the match, claiming two wickets for 21 runs and scoring 30 runs off just 11 balls to help his team win.

Doug Bracewell has represented New Zealand in all three formats. The all-rounder, who played in 28 tests, 21 ODIs, and 20 T20Is, played his last international match against Sri Lanka at Wellington in March 2023.