Former NZ Pacer Doug Bracewell Gets One-Month Cricket Ban for Cocaine Test

New Delhi (Alayaran.com) - Former New Zealand cricketer Doug Bracewell has been slapped with a one-month ban by the New Zealand Sport Integrity Commission after testing positive for cocaine following a domestic Twenty20 game in January.

The 34-year-old, who represented New Zealand in 28 Test matches and played a crucial role in several high-profile victories, including his memorable Test debut against Zimbabwe in 2011, was named Player of the Match in the Central Districts vs Wellington Twenty20 match where he tested positive for cocaine.

Initially, the Commission had imposed a three-month suspension but reduced it to one month after Bracewell completed a treatment program. The one-month ban was retroactively applied in April, allowing Bracewell to resume playing cricket.

The Commission stated that Bracewell's actions were considered "out of competition and for reasons unrelated to sport performance", but acknowledged his responsibility as an athlete to set a positive example for the next generation of athletes.

New Zealand Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink expressed disappointment in Bracewell's actions, stating: "Doug accepts full responsibility for his error of judgement, the consequences of his behavior and the penalty imposed. As an organization, we will continue to provide support for Doug who is fully aware of our expectations moving forward."

Bracewell's cricketing career, which has been marked by several standout performances, includes memorable victories over Australia in Hobart in 2011, where he claimed six wickets for 40 runs.