Former New Zealand all-rounder Doug Bracewell has admitted using cocaine after the primary day of Essex’s ultimate County Championship match final yr.
Bracewell returned the optimistic take a look at on 25 September – the second day of the match towards Somerset at Chelmsford.
He was notified by the Cricket Regulator in November and responded on 8 December, confirming he had used cocaine after the primary day of the fixture, into the early hours of the next morning.
Bracewell, who signed for Essex for the ultimate three Championship matches of the season, opened the bowling on day one, claiming two wickets as Somerset moved to 339-6. He was not required to bat on day two and Essex ultimately gained the match by seven wickets.
After being notified of the optimistic take a look at, Bracewell then retired from cricket on 28 December. The Regulator has nonetheless issued him with a two-year ban.
Part of a well-known New Zealand cricketing household – his uncle John Bracewell performed 28 Tests and cousin Michael is a present Black Cap – Doug performed 69 worldwide matches throughout codecs.
He additionally beforehand served a one-month ban for cocaine use in 2024.
Bracewell has accepted the sanction, whereas Essex is not going to face punishment.
“Essex can confirm that Doug Bracewell failed a routine drugs test in September 2025,” mentioned a membership assertion.
“The club supports the Cricket Regulator’s decision to impose a period of ineligibility of two years. All employees are required to meet the highest standards of professional conduct.
“While the membership doesn’t condone Bracewell’s behaviour, we’re dedicated to supporting him by rehabilitation in line with our insurance policies and procedures.”
