Former New Zealand all-rounder Doug Bracewell has been banned for a month for cocaine use. The 34-year-old Bracewell tested positive for the drug after a domestic Twenty20 match in January, the New Zealand Sports Integrity Commission said in a statement on Monday.
The commission said Bracewell used the substance out of competition, which was not directly related to his game. This resulted in an initial three-month ban. However, that was reduced to one month because he completed a rehabilitation program.
The commission's chief executive Rebecca Rolls said players had a responsibility to set a positive example. "All recreational drugs, including cocaine, are illegal and can pose a serious threat to the health and safety of players and their teammates."
"This is a serious problem at all levels of sport," she said. We want to work with the sporting bodies and the players to address this.”
New Zealand Cricket chief executive Scott Winnick criticized Bracewell’s behaviour, saying, “Doug has taken full responsibility for his mistakes. His behavior has disappointed him and he has accepted the consequences.”
Winnick added, “As an organization, we will continue to support Doug. He is fully aware of our expectations.” Doug Bracewell played 28 Tests, 21 ODIs and 20 T20Is for New Zealand.