Bracewell confirmed his decision after struggling with a persistent rib injury that has kept him out of action for Central Districts in recent months. The recurring issue made it increasingly difficult for him to cope with the physical demands of elite cricket, ultimately leading him to step away from the game.
Making his international debut in 2011, the right-arm seamer quickly established himself as a valuable all-round option for New Zealand. Over the course of his career, Bracewell represented the national side in 28 Test matches, 21 One Day Internationals and 20 T20 Internationals, contributing with both bat and ball across formats.
One of the defining moments of Bracewell’s career came early, in just his third Test appearance. In 2011, he produced a remarkable performance against Australia, returning match figures of 9 for 60 to guide New Zealand to a historic Test victory on Australian soil. The win ended a 26-year wait for a Test triumph in Australia and remains New Zealand’s most recent Test success there.
In the longest format, Bracewell claimed 74 wickets at an average of 38.82, including two five-wicket hauls. He also picked up 26 wickets in ODIs and 20 in T20 Internationals, underlining his role as a dependable bowling all-rounder whenever called upon.
Beyond the international stage, Bracewell was a cornerstone of Central Districts in New Zealand’s domestic competitions. Across formats, he accumulated more than 4,000 first-class runs and took over 400 wickets, reflecting his consistency and value at the domestic level over many seasons.
Despite his international career being interrupted by injuries, Bracewell earned widespread respect within New Zealand cricket for his resilience, professionalism and commitment to the team. His ability to contribute in crucial moments, particularly with the ball, ensured his place in several significant chapters of the country’s cricketing narrative.
As Doug Bracewell steps away from professional cricket, he leaves behind a legacy defined by perseverance, versatility and a handful of performances that continue to resonate with fans and teammates alike. His retirement marks the end of a notable era for a player whose impact extended well beyond the numbers on the scorecard.
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