New Delhi: New Zealand fast bowler Doug Bracwell has been banned for a month from cricket after being tested positive for cocaine. The 34-year-old returned positive for the ban substance during a Super Smash T20 match between Wellington Firebirds and Central Districts in January this year.
Interestingly, Bracewell was awarded as the Player of the Match in the same contest after he accounted for bowling figures of 2 for 21 from four overs for Central Districts, who eventually won the match by six wickets.
According to reports from New Zealand media publications, The Sport Integrity Commission issued a statement that Bracwell used cocaine outside the competition. However, the substance is prohibited from consumption under the Substances of Abuse category in the Sports Anti-Doping Rules.
Consequently, the Black Caps pacer was sanctioned with a one-month ban retroactive to April 2024, which got reduced from a three-month ban period following the completion of a treatment programme, where the player had to address the usage of the prohibited substance. Now that the sanction was a backdated, it is considered that Bracewell is eligible to participate in cricket again.
NZC issues statement on Bracwell’s cocaine sanction
Bracewell’s actions were criticised by New Zealand Cricket with board president Scott Weenink saying the player is responsible for his actions. The organisation has decided to lend its support to the player to make a comeback to the game.
“NZC is committed to promoting safe and responsible behaviours and is frustrated at this latest turn of events. Doug accepts full responsibility for his error of judgement; the consequences of his behaviour, and the penalty imposed,” the statement read, as published by Stuff.
“As an organisation, we will continue to provide support for Doug – who is fully aware of our expectations moving forward.”
“As a professional cricketer, Doug knows the doping rules he is subject to. While in no way attempting to gain any performance enhancement, his decision has nevertheless resulted in him missing several playing opportunities whilst this matter has been dealt with, and it reflects poorly on our environment.
“Since this positive test result, we have supported Doug through an appropriate counselling programme and have taken steps to remind all our members of the anti-doping rules and their associated obligations and responsibilities.”
Bracewell has played 28 Tests, 21 One-Day Internationals, and 20 T20 Internationals with his last appearance for the Black Caps was made in March 2023 during the second Test match against Sri Lanka in Wellington. He has claimed 120 wickets across all formats of international cricket.
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