Bracewell returned a positive drugs test on 25 September, the second day of the match against Somerset at Chelmsford. He was informed by the Cricket Regulator in November and confirmed on 8 December that he had used cocaine after play on day one, into the early hours of the following morning.

Signed by Essex for the final three Championship matches, Bracewell took two wickets on the opening day as Somerset reached 339-6. He did not bat on day two, with Essex going on to win by seven wickets.

Bracewell retired from cricket on 28 December, shortly after being notified of the test result, but has still been handed a two-year ban. He previously served a one-month suspension for cocaine use in 2024.

A member of a prominent New Zealand cricketing family, Bracewell played 69 internationals across formats. He has accepted the sanction, while Essex will face no punishment.

In a statement, Essex confirmed the failed test and said it supported the Regulator’s decision, adding that while the club does not condone the behaviour, it remains committed to supporting Bracewell through rehabilitation.