New Zealand all-rounder Doug Bracewell has announced his retirement from all forms of professional cricket at age 35, concluding an 18-year career. The decision comes after Bracewell battled a persistent rib injury that kept him off the field for Central Districts during the current domestic season. Bracewell played 28 Tests, 21 One-Day Internationals, and 20 Twenty20 Internationals for New Zealand, making his last international appearance in a Test against Sri Lanka in 2023.^{[1][2][3][4][5][6][7]} ### A Defining International Moment Bracewell's international career began in 2011, and he quickly made a significant impact. In just his third Test match, played against Australia in Hobart in December 2011, he delivered a memorable performance. He claimed match figures of 9 wickets for 60 runs, including a decisive 6 wickets for 40 runs in Australia's second innings. This effort powered New Zealand to a narrow seven-run victory, marking their first Test win on Australian soil in 26 years. It remains New Zealand's last Test victory in Australia.^{[1][2][4][8][9][6][10]} This match-winning display cemented his place in New Zealand cricket history and showcased his potential as a formidable fast-medium bowler. He made his Test debut against Zimbabwe in November 2011, taking 5 wickets for 85 runs in the second innings. This made him the seventh New Zealand bowler to achieve a five-wicket haul on Test debut.^[11][12] ### Extensive Domestic and Franchise Career Beyond his international duties, Bracewell was a cornerstone of the Central Districts team for 17 years, debuting for them as an 18-year-old in 2008.^[1][2][13] He achieved a rare distinction in New Zealand first-class cricket, scoring over 4,000 runs and taking more than 400 wickets. In 137 first-class matches, he amassed 4,505 runs, including three centuries, and claimed 437 wickets at an average of 31.08.^[2][6][7] This highlights his genuine all-round ability, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. His domestic record firmly establishes him as one of the most reliable all-rounders in Kiwi cricket history.^[2][3] Bracewell's career also included stints in various global franchise leagues. He played for the Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2012. He also featured in England's County Championship for Northamptonshire and Essex. More recently, he represented the Joburg Super Kings in South Africa's SA20 league in 2024 and the Central Stags in the Global Super League in Guyana earlier this year.^{[2][11][13][14][6][7]} These experiences broadened his cricketing horizons and allowed him to compete in diverse conditions. ### A Career Marked by Resilience and Pride Throughout his career, Bracewell's determination was evident, especially in his comebacks from serious knee injuries in 2016 and 2019.^[2][14] However, the ongoing rib injury proved to be the final challenge, ultimately leading to his decision to retire.^{[3][4][15][5][7]} Reflecting on his journey, Bracewell expressed deep gratitude. "It's been a proud part of my life, and something I aspired to as a young cricketer," Bracewell said in a statement released by Central Districts.^{[1][4][13][6]} He added, "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."^{[1][4][13][6][7][10]} Central Districts Cricket chief executive Lance Hamilton praised Bracewell's loyalty and resilience. Hamilton stated, "Doug's playing record will speak for itself for decades to come. The way he came back from serious knee injuries in 2016 and 2019 showed his determination. We wish Doug and his family all the best for the future."^[2][14] ### A Cricketing Family Legacy Doug Bracewell comes from a prominent cricketing family in New Zealand. His father, Brendon Bracewell, and his uncle, John Bracewell, both played Test cricket for New Zealand. John Bracewell also served multiple terms as the national head coach. His cousin, Michael Bracewell, is also an active international cricketer for New Zealand and even captained the ODI side on a tour to India.^{[1][11][4][9][12][6][10]} This deep family connection meant cricket was always a significant part of his life, fueling his aspirations from a young age. Bracewell's international statistics include 74 wickets in 28 Tests at an average of 38.82, with a best bowling performance of 6 wickets for 40 runs. In One-Day Internationals, he took 26 wickets in 21 matches at an average of 32.50, and in Twenty20 Internationals, he secured 20 wickets in 20 appearances at an average of 23.50.^{[1][16][5][17][12][10]} With the bat, he scored 568 runs in Tests, 221 runs in ODIs, including one half-century, and 126 runs in T20Is.^{[11][5][17][12]} His 17-year professional career, which included 69 international appearances for the Black Caps, concludes with a legacy of resilience, significant contributions with both bat and ball, and a memorable Test victory in Australia.^[1][5]

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