Cricket

Doug Bracewell, the seasoned New Zealand seamer, has faced a one-month suspension from the country's Sports Tribunal for violating anti-doping regulations. The suspension stems from the detection of cocaine and its metabolite in his system during an in-competition test conducted on January 13, 2023.Initially, Bracewell maintained that his cocaine use occurred out-of-competition, unrelated to his sporting performance. However, the Sport Integrity Commission contested this claim, arguing that the substance must have been consumed during the competition.Following the submission of expert evidence from both parties, the Commission reconsidered its position and accepted Bracewell's account. As a result, a three-month ineligibility period was agreed upon, which was subsequently reduced to one month due to Bracewell's successful completion of a Substance of Abuse treatment program.The tribunal imposed the one-month ineligibility period, effective from April 11, 2023, the date of Bracewell's provisional suspension. The 34-year-old has represented New Zealand in 28 Tests, 21 ODIs, and 20 T20Is since his international debut in 2011.Bracewell, a long-time Central Districts player, recently opted out of his contract with the club to pursue a freelance career. He is expected to participate in the Abu Dhabi T20 league as part of the New York Strikers and the SA20 as a member of the Joburg Super Kings.