Michael Bracewell

NZ
NZ
All-Rounder
All-Rounder
Michael Bracewell

Player Bio

Michael Bracewell, the talented New Zealand cricketer, has made a mark in the international cricket scene with his explosive batting and impressive skills behind the stumps. Born on 14 February 1991, Bracewell comes from an esteemed cricketing family. As the nephew of former Test players Brendon and John Bracewell and cousin to current international player Doug Bracewell, cricket runs deep in his veins. Hailing from Masterton, Bracewell attended Kavanagh College in Dunedin.

Early Life and Background

From a young age, it was clear that Michael Bracewell was destined for greatness in the world of cricket. Growing up in a sporting household, with his father Mark being a former domestic star himself, life revolved around the game for young Michael.

Inspired by legendary wicketkeeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist, Bracewell took up cricket at the tender age of five. Blessed with natural talent and determination, he began honing his skills as a left-handed top-order wicketkeeper-batsman.

Bracewell's family connections undoubtedly played a role in shaping his passion for cricket. With uncles who had represented New Zealand at the highest level and a cousin who continued to do so, he was surrounded by invaluable guidance and support.

Rise to Prominence

Bracewell's rise to prominence came through his consistent performances at the domestic level. Playing for Wellington, he caught the attention of selectors with his aggressive batting style and ability to score quick runs.

In June 2018, Bracewell secured a contract with Wellington for the 2018-19 season, paving the way for further success. His breakthrough moment arrived during the 2019-20 Plunket Shield season when he achieved his maiden five-wicket haul in first-class cricket.

The following year, Bracewell's stock continued to rise as he was offered a contract for the 2020-21 domestic cricket season. It was during this time that he etched his name into the record books by scoring an unbeaten 141 for the Wellington Firebirds in the 2021-22 Super Smash tournament, setting a new record for the highest score in a Twenty20 cricket match in New Zealand.

Cricketing Career

Bracewell's international debut for New Zealand came in March 2022 when he was named in the One Day International (ODI) and Twenty20 International (T20I) squads for their home series against the Netherlands. Although he made an immediate impact with his aggressive batting style, Bracewell has yet to receive a national call-up to the Test team.

In May 2022, Bracewell's dream of representing New Zealand in Test cricket finally became a reality when he was named in the squad for their tour of England. Making his Test debut on 10 June 2022 at Trent Bridge, Bracewell seized the opportunity and showcased his talent against England.

Bracewell's playing style can be described as explosive and entertaining. Known for his destructive batting, he draws inspiration from his childhood hero Adam Gilchrist. His ability to hit big sixes and score quick runs makes him a valuable asset in limited-overs cricket.

While known primarily for his batting prowess, Bracewell has also developed as an off-spin bowler over the years. His variations and accuracy make him a useful second-string option in crucial moments.

Throughout his career, Bracewell has been praised for his composure under pressure and ability to perform when it matters most. He has proven himself as a match-winner on multiple occasions and continues to be an integral part of Wellington's success.

Off the field, Bracewell is known for his humility and dedication to the game. He remains grounded despite his achievements, constantly striving to improve and reach new heights.

As of now, Michael Bracewell's net worth is not publicly disclosed. However, with his rising profile and consistent performances, it is expected that he has secured lucrative contracts and endorsements.

Major Tournaments and Series

Michael Bracewell has showcased his skills on the grand stage of international cricket, leaving an indelible mark in major tournaments and series. Let's dive into some of his most noteworthy performances.

Bracewell made his debut for the New Zealand cricket team in March 2022, but it didn't take long for him to make a name for himself in ICC tournaments. In the World Cup that followed, Bracewell played a crucial role with both bat and ball, proving his worth as an all-rounder. He showcased his ability to adapt to different situations, delivering match-winning performances when it mattered the most.

In the prestigious Champions Trophy, Bracewell continued to impress with his consistent performances. He displayed composure under pressure and contributed significantly to New Zealand's success in the tournament. His ability to rise to the occasion earned him accolades from fans and experts alike.

Bracewell's proficiency wasn't limited to 50-over cricket; he excelled in the shortest format as well. In World T20 tournaments, he demonstrated his explosive batting style and innovative shot selection. His ability to clear boundaries effortlessly made him a formidable force in crucial matches.

Outside of ICC tournaments, Bracewell has made significant contributions in other major tournaments against strong opponents. His performances in bilateral series against top-ranked teams have been nothing short of exceptional. Whether it's scoring quick runs or picking up vital wickets, Bracewell consistently delivers when it matters.

One of Bracewell's standout moments came during the IPL, where he represented Royal Challengers Bangalore as a replacement player. His aggressive batting style brought fireworks to the tournament, captivating audiences with his ability to hit massive sixes and score at a rapid pace.

Playing Role and Skills

Bracewell is a left-handed batsman who also possesses wicket-keeping skills, although he primarily focuses on his batting in the Wellington cricket team. His technique and shot selection are reminiscent of some of the great left-handed batsmen of the past.

Bracewell's primary role in the team is to provide stability and firepower in the middle order. Equipped with excellent hand-eye coordination and a wide range of strokes, he can adapt to various match situations. His aggressive style of play often puts opposition bowlers under immense pressure.

One of Bracewell's greatest strengths is his ability to clear boundaries with ease. He possesses incredible power and timing, making him a nightmare for bowlers during the death overs. His ability to find gaps in the field and manipulate the scoreboard is a testament to his cricketing acumen.

While Bracewell is known for his explosive batting, he has also developed his off-spin bowling as a valuable secondary skill. His ability to pick up crucial wickets at important junctures has provided an extra dimension to his game. With deceptive flight and good control over line and length, Bracewell can outfox even the best batsmen.

Tactically aware and adaptable, Bracewell understands when to accelerate or anchor innings according to team requirements. He has shown remarkable maturity for someone relatively new to international cricket, taking responsibility in pressure situations and leading from the front.

Personality and Off-the-Field Persona

Off the field, Michael Bracewell exudes a calm and composed demeanour that reflects his leadership qualities. While he may not have captained at the international level yet, he has displayed astute decision-making skills during his domestic career.

Bracewell is well-respected among teammates for his professionalism and dedication towards improving his game. He leads by example, putting in countless hours of hard work behind the scenes to hone his skills further. His commitment to excellence sets a high standard for others around him.

Beyond the cricket field, Bracewell enjoys a wide range of interests and hobbies. He is an avid rugby enthusiast and can often be found on the sidelines supporting his favourite team. His passion for sports extends to basketball as well, showcasing his multi-faceted talents.

While Bracewell's off-the-field persona is relatively low-key, he has caught the attention of brands with his performances on the cricket field. He has secured notable sponsorship deals that reflect his rising star status in the world of cricket.

As Michael Bracewell continues to evolve as a cricketer, it is evident that he possesses immense potential for future growth and success. With age on his side and a strong foundation in both batting and bowling, he could very well become one of New Zealand's most celebrated cricketers in years to come.

Legacy and Impact

Michael Bracewell's impact on the game of cricket cannot be overstated. As a left-handed batsman and wicketkeeper, he brought a unique style and energy to the field. His aggressive and destructive batting approach drew inspiration from legendary cricketer Adam Gilchrist, captivating fans with his ability to hit boundaries at will.

Bracewell's influence extended beyond his playing career, inspiring future generations of cricketers to adopt a similar fearless approach. His ability to score quick runs and turn matches in his team's favour made him a force to be reckoned with.

One record that stands out in cricket history is Bracewell's unbeaten 141 in the 2021-22 Super Smash tournament, which became the highest individual score in a Twenty20 match in New Zealand. This incredible achievement showcased his talent and established him as a player capable of dominating any format of the game.

Bracewell's legacy also lies in his versatility as an all-rounder. Initially known for his batting prowess, he later developed his off-spin bowling as a useful second string. This added dimension to his game and made him a valuable asset for any team he played for.

His impact on Wellington cricket cannot be overlooked either. Bracewell's consistent performances helped lead Wellington to success in various domestic tournaments, including becoming the leading run-scorer in the T20 Super Smash.

Overall, Michael Bracewell's legacy is one defined by his attacking style of play, versatility, and ability to perform under pressure. He has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on New Zealand cricket and will continue to inspire young cricketers for years to come.

Recognition and Awards

Throughout his career, Michael Bracewell has received recognition and accolades for his exceptional performances on the field. While he hasn't yet captained any teams at the international level, his contributions as a player have not gone unnoticed.

Bracewell's achievements have earned him the respect of his peers and cricketing experts alike. His consistent performances for Wellington and New Zealand A have paved the way for various honours and awards. Although specific details are not available, it is clear that Bracewell's talent has been acknowledged by the cricketing community.

In addition to personal accolades, Bracewell has also been offered honorary positions in major cricket organizations. These roles reflect his standing within the cricketing fraternity and highlight the high regard in which he is held.

While further information on specific recognition and awards may be limited, Bracewell's impact on the game speaks for itself. His records and achievements on the field stand as a testament to his skill, dedication, and contribution to New Zealand cricket.

Michael Bracewell's journey in cricket has been one of perseverance, growth, and immense talent. From a young age, he showed promise as a left-handed top-order wicket-keeper batsman, inspired by his hero Adam Gilchrist. Over time, Bracewell developed into an explosive batsman known for his aggressive style of play.

Representing Wellington at both domestic and international levels, Bracewell has consistently delivered match-winning performances. His unforgettable unbeaten 141 in the Super Smash tournament showcased his ability to dominate any format of the game.

As an all-rounder with off-spin bowling skills, Bracewell adds depth to any team he represents. His versatility makes him a valuable asset capable of contributing with both bat and ball.

Although he is yet to receive a national call-up to represent New Zealand at the highest level consistently, Bracewell's potential remains evident. With time still on his side, there is no doubt that he will continue to grow and develop as a player.

Off the field, Bracewell is known for his dedication to multiple sports. Apart from cricket, he excels in rugby and basketball, showcasing his athleticism and versatility across different disciplines.

FAQs
What is Michael Bracewell's current age?
Michael Bracewell was born on 14 February 1991, making him currently 32 years old.
Has Michael Bracewell played any Test matches for New Zealand?
Yes, Michael Bracewell made his Test debut on 10 June 2022, representing New Zealand against England at Trent Bridge.
Does Michael Bracewell have any records of his name in One Day Internationals (ODIs)?
Yes, in January 2023, Bracewell scored the third-fastest century for New Zealand in ODI cricket during the first match of the series against India.
Has Michael Bracewell ever played in the Indian Premier League (IPL)?
Yes, for the IPL 2023 season, Bracewell was signed as a replacement for injured Will Jacks in the Royal Challengers Bangalore team.
What is Michael Bracewell's Net worth?
Michael Bracewell's Net worth is $5 million.