John Garry Bracewell is a former cricketer and coach from New Zealand, renowned for his offspin bowling skills and powerful batting ability. Born on September 15, 1958, in New Plymouth, New Zealand, Bracewell’s career spanned from the late 1970s to the early 1990s, during which he made significant contributions to the game.
As an offspinner, Bracewell possessed a resourceful and effective technique, delivering his deliveries with a high action. In an era when the art of spin was fading away, he maintained an impressive strike rate of a wicket every 82 balls. His ability to take wickets consistently made him an invaluable asset to the New Zealand cricket team.
Throughout his career, Bracewell exemplified his match-winning capabilities on several occasions. He achieved three six-for performances, all of which resulted in victories for his team. The most notable of these was during the 1985-86 series against Australia, where he bowled a mesmerizing spell of 6 for 32 in Auckland. This performance propelled New Zealand to become the first side to beat Australia in two series in a single winter. Additionally, Bracewell became the first spinner from New Zealand to achieve a ten-wicket haul in a single match.
Beyond his spin bowling prowess, Bracewell showcased his skills as a hard-hitting batsman. A lower-order batsman, he possessed the ability to wield the willow with authority, often delivering powerful strokes. In a match against Australia in Sydney, Bracewell scored an impressive 83 not out, forming a last-wicket partnership of 124 runs alongside Stephen Boock. This remarkable innings displayed his versatility as a cricketer.
After retiring from playing cricket, Bracewell ventured into coaching, a role in which he achieved considerable success. He assumed the position of coach for Gloucestershire, a county cricket team in England, during the turn of the century. Under his guidance, Gloucestershire secured a series of one-day trophies, establishing their dominance in limited-overs cricket.
In September 2003, Bracewell returned to New Zealand to take charge as the national team’s coach. During his tenure, which lasted until November 2008, he led the team through a moderately successful period. He guided New Zealand to their first-ever Chappell-Hadlee Trophy victory and secured their qualification for the 2007 World Cup, where they reached the semi-finals. Despite these achievements, the team’s performance declined, resulting in New Zealand slipping to eighth in the Test rankings at the time of Bracewell’s departure.
Following his departure as New Zealand coach, Bracewell resumed coaching duties at Gloucestershire, further cementing his reputation as a highly respected and accomplished coach. Throughout his career, both as a player and coach, Bracewell has left an indelible mark on the sport of cricket, displaying his skills, adaptability, and dedication to the game.
In the world of cricket, John Garry Bracewell’s name will forever be associated with his crafty offspin bowling, powerful batting, and his contributions to the success of both New Zealand and Gloucestershire cricket.
