New Zealand’s Famous Cricketer Gets Banned After Testing Positive for Cocaine

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Doug Bracewell, a New Zealand cricketer and former IPL player, has been handed a one-month backdated ban after testing positive for cocaine. The 34-year-old fast bowler tested positive earlier this year following a domestic T20 match.

Bracewell, who played in the IPL for Delhi Daredevils in 2012, was tested after a game between Central Stags and Wellington in January 2024. He had delivered a remarkable all-round performance in that match, earning the Player of the Match award for taking 2 for 21 and scoring a quick-fire 30 off 11 balls.

Reduced Ban After Treatment

The Sports Integrity Commission, Te Kahu Raunui, initially considered a three-month ban for Bracewell. However, the suspension was reduced to one month after he successfully completed a substance abuse treatment program. The ban was backdated to April 2024, meaning Bracewell has already served his suspension and is now eligible to return to cricket.

Bracewell last represented New Zealand in a Test match against Sri Lanka in March 2023. Over his career, he has made 69 appearances for the national team across formats.

Not the First Drug Scandal in Cricket

This is not the first time a cricketer has faced a ban for drug use. England’s Alex Hales was suspended for 21 days in 2019 for recreational drug use. Similarly, former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram and Zimbabwe’s Brendan Taylor have admitted to using cocaine during their playing days.

Doug Bracewell’s case serves as a reminder of the challenges athletes face both on and off the field. While his suspension has ended, it remains to be seen how this incident will affect his cricketing career moving forward.

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