Former New Zealand pacer handed one-month ban for cocaine use

NEW DELHI: Former New Zealand pacer Doug Bracewell received a one-month ban earlier this year after testing positive for cocaine.

The New Zealand Sport Integrity Commission publicly released the details of the ban on Monday.

The 34-year-old, who represented New Zealand in 28 Test matches, failed the drug test following a domestic Twenty20 game between Central Districts and Wellington in January. Bracewell was named Player of the Match in that game.

Initially, the Commission imposed a three-month suspension. However, this was reduced to one month on Bracewell's completion of a treatment program.

The one-month ban was retroactively applied, commencing in April, allowing him to resume playing cricket.

“It was accepted that he had used the cocaine out of competition and for reasons unrelated to sport performance,” the Commission said.

“Athletes have a responsibility to set a positive example. Their actions, both on and off the field, influence the next generation of athletes and it’s essential that they act as role models by making healthy, responsible choices."

New Zealand Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink released a statement expressing disappointment in Bracewell's actions.

“Doug accepts full responsibility for his error of judgement, the consequences of his behavior and the penalty imposed," Weenink said. “As an organization we will continue to provide support for Doug who is fully aware of our expectations moving forward."

Bracewell's cricketing career includes a memorable Test debut against Zimbabwe in 2011, where he claimed five wickets in an innings.

Later that year, he played a crucial role in New Zealand's victory over Australia in Hobart, securing figures of 6-40.