New Zealand all-rounder Doug Bracewell announces retirement from all forms of cricket

Former New Zealand all-rounder Doug Bracewell announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Monday, according to the ICC website. The 35-year-old brings the curtain down on a long career that saw him represent New Zealand across formats for over a decade.

Bracewell appeared in 28 Tests, 21 ODIs, and 20 T20Is for the Blackcaps during the span of 2011-2023. In Test cricket, he took 74 wickets, whereas in ODIs he took 26 wickets and in T20Is 20. He scored 568 runs in Tests, 221 in ODIs, and 126 in T20Is with his bat.

His most recent international appearance came in a Test match against Sri Lanka in Wellington in 2023. A rib injury later played a role in his decision to end his playing career while representing his domestic side, Central Districts, in New Zealand.

A Memorable Moment in Bracewell’s Career

New Zealand Cricket confirmed Bracewell’s retirement through its official X handle and highlighted one of his most memorable performances. New Zealand Cricket credited him for his key role in New Zealand’s famous Test win over Australia in Hobart in 2011.

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In that match, Bracewell produced his career-best Test figures of 6-40 in the second innings, helping New Zealand secure a dramatic seven-run victory. The Blackcaps’ post read, “All rounder Doug Bracewell has announced his retirement from all cricket. Bracewell played 28 Tests, 21 ODIs and 20 T20Is for New Zealand taking 120 wickets and scoring 915 runs. He played a key role in New Zealand's last Test victory over Australia, in Hobart in 2011, claiming career-best Test figures of 6-40 in the second innings to help secure a famous 7-run win. Congratulations on a brilliant career, Doug.”

Bracewell also shared his own thoughts on retirement in a statement released by Central Districts. He said, “It's been a proud part of my life, and something I aspired to as a young cricketer. I will always be grateful for the opportunities I have had through cricket, and the chance to play for my country, as well as for Central Districts, throughout my domestic career. It's a privilege to play first-class and international cricket, and I'm grateful to have played and enjoyed the game for as long as I have.”