ESSEX all-rounder Doug Bracewell has been hit with a two-year ban after admitting to using cocaine after the first day of a County Championship match.
The former New Zealand star, 35, tested positive on the second day following the use of the drug in a game against Somerset last September.
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Doug Bracewell’s drugs test came back as positive while playing for Essex in 2025 Credit: Getty
Bracewell has since been handed a two-year ban by England’s regulatory board Credit: Getty
In November, England’s Cricket Regulator notified Bracewell of his positive test from Chelmsford.
But it was not until the next month that the cricketer admitted that he had used cocaine after the game finished on the first day.
Bracewell also confirmed he was using the Class A drug into the early hours of the next day.
A club statement said: “Essex Cricket can confirm that Doug Bracewell failed a routine drugs test in September 2025.
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“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.”
Cocaine is listed as a prohibited substance under the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) anti-doping regulations.
The 35-year-old took two wickets on day one but was not required to bat with Essex eventually winning by seven wickets.
Today the Regulator handed the Kiwi a two-year ban despite his retirement on December 28.
Bracewell has held his hands up and accepted the ban – and Essex will not be punished.
The all-rounder had even served a one-month ban for his cocaine use back in New Zealand in 2024.
He had used the drug after a domestic T20 match but completed a substance abuse treatment programme.
Bracewell bowed out of his professional career having represented New Zealand 69 times across various formats, including 28 Test matches.
He made his Test debut in November 2011 against Zimbabwe and his final Test against Sri Lanka in March 2023.
Bracewell is the son of former Test cricketer Brendon Bracewell.
His uncle, John Bracewell, is also a former Black Caps player and coach.
