Bracewell used cocaine after day's County Championship play

Doug Bracewell played 28 Tests, 21 one-day internationals and 20 T20 internationals for New Zealand

>Former New Zealand all-rounder Doug Bracewell has admitted using cocaine after the first day of Essex's final County Championship match last year.

>Bracewell returned the positive test on 25 September - the second day of the match against Somerset at Chelmsford.

>He was notified by the Cricket Regulator in November and responded on 8 December, confirming he had used cocaine after the first day of the fixture, into the early hours of the following morning.

>Bracewell, who signed for Essex for the final 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 eventually won the match by seven wickets.

>After being notified of the positive test, Bracewell then retired from cricket on 28 December. The Regulator has still issued him with a two-year ban.

>Part of a famous New Zealand cricketing family – his uncle John Bracewell played 28 Tests and cousin Michael is a current Black Cap – Doug played 69 international matches across formats.

>He also previously served a one-month ban for cocaine use in 2024.

>Bracewell has accepted the sanction, while Essex will not face punishment.

>"Essex can confirm that Doug Bracewell failed a routine drugs test in September 2025," said a club statement.

>"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 club does not condone Bracewell's behaviour, we are committed to supporting him through rehabilitation in line with our policies and procedures."