Former Black Caps all-rounder Doug Bracewell has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, bringing the curtain down on a 12-year international career marked by grit, swing bowling, and one unforgettable performance in Hobart. The 35-year-old last represented New Zealand in 2023 and has been sidelined recently by a rib injury while playing for Central Districts.
Bracewell featured in 28 Tests, 21 ODIs and 20 T20Is, finishing with 74 Test wickets and 46 white-ball scalps. His defining moment came in only his third Test, when he produced match figures of 9 for 60 against Australia in Hobart in 2011, inspiring New Zealand to a dramatic seven-run win, their first Test victory in Australia in 26 years, and still their last on Australian soil.
Across a prolific domestic career, Bracewell became one of the few New Zealanders to achieve the double of 4000+ first-class runs and 400+ wickets, ending with 437 wickets and 4505 runs in 137 matches. He also appeared in global leagues including the IPL with Delhi Daredevils and SA20 with Joburg Super Kings.
In a statement, Bracewell reflected with pride on a career that spanned more than a decade.
“It’s been a proud part of my life and something I aspired to as a young cricketer,” he said. “I will always be grateful for the opportunity to represent New Zealand and Central Districts. It’s a privilege to play first-class and international cricket, and I’m grateful to have enjoyed the game for as long as I have.”
Bracewell belongs to one of New Zealand cricket’s most recognisable families, his father Brendon, uncle John, and cousin Michael Bracewell all having represented the Black Caps. As he steps away from the game, he leaves behind the memory of a wholehearted cricketer whose best was truly world-class when it mattered most.
