Doug Bracewell: Essex sign New Zealander for final weeks of season

Essex have signed New Zealand all-rounder Doug Bracewell on a deal until the end of the season.

The 34-year-old played for the club in 2023 and will be available for their three remaining County Championship matches next month.

Essex are eighth in Division One, having won only two of their 11 games, and still in danger of relegation.

“My time playing for Essex in 2023 is something I remember fondly and I hope I can help the team win matches during the run in,” he said.

Bracewell has played 28 Test matches, 21 one-dayers and 20 T20 internationals for the Kiwis, but none since 2023.

He has taken 416 wickets and scored 4,483 runs, including three hundreds, in first-class cricket.

“He has a wealth of experience and has represented the club before so he knows what it means to play for Essex,” director of cricket Chris Silverwood said.

“With three important County Championship fixtures left he reinforces our bowling attack who have had a heavy workload this season and I am confident he will contribute to the team.”

Bracewell’s father Brendon, uncle John and cousin Michael also played international cricket for New Zealand – and John went on to become one of the game’s most respected coaches.