“I made a massive mistake by driving that evening and apologise unreservedly for my actions”

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

New Zealand pace bowler Doug Bracewell has pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of alcohol.

Bracewell was pulled over in Haumoana on March 18 and was found to have an alcohol reading of 783 micrograms, which is three times the legal limit of 250 micrograms.

The 26-year-old appeared at Hastings District Court on Thursday and pleaded guilty to the charge of drink-driving. The other charge of careless driving was withdrawn.

“I made a massive mistake by driving that evening and apologise unreservedly for my actions,” Bracewell, who last represented the national team in October 2016, said through a statement released by New Zealand Cricket (NZC). “This was no-one’s fault but my own; I take full responsibility, and I’m deeply embarrassed to have let down so many people – be they family, friends, or cricket lovers.”

NZC chief executive David White added: “Driving responsibly and considerately is a key part of creating safer communities, and, as Doug has said himself, he should have known better.

“As an organisation, we’re committed to promoting safe and responsible behaviours on our roads and take a very dim view of drink-driving.”

Bracewell will be sentenced next month under provisions for offenders who have been convicted of multiple drink-driving offences.

This is the third alcohol-related incident Bracewell has been involved in during his career as in 2012, he and opening batsman Jesse Ryder were involved in an altercation with a patron in a bar after an ODI against South Africa.

Two years later, Bracewell and Ryder were sanctioned for drinking and staying out late on the eve of the first Test against India in Auckland.