New Zealand’s Sport Integrity Commission has banned fast bowler Doug Bracewell for a month after he tested positive for cocaine use.

According to Wisdom, Sports Integrity Commission Te Kahu Raunui said in a statement that Bracewell tested positive for cocaine after a domestic T20 match in January 2024 between Central Districts and Wellington. He also won the Man of the Match award in this match for taking two wickets and scoring an unbeaten 30 runs from 11 balls.

Previously, the pacer was suspended for three months, but when it was found that the cocaine use was not cricket-related, the board reduced the ban to one month.

Additionally, New Zealand Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink said the board was “frustrated by this latest turn of events” but would continue to support the fast bowler.

He said: “NZC is committed to promoting safe and responsible behavior and is frustrated by this latest turn of events. Doug accepts full responsibility for his error in judgment, the consequences of his behavior and the penalty imposed. As an organization, we will continue to support Doug, who is fully aware of our expectations for the future.

The 34-year-old, who last played for the national team in March 2023 in a Test match against Sri Lanka in Wellington, has completed his treatment programme.

Bracewell has played 28 Tests, 21 ODIs and 20 T20Is since his international debut in 2011.