One of the country's most promising young fast bowlers could be at least temporarily lost to New Zealand following a recent incident at an exclusive school.
Doug Bracewell, the son of former New Zealand fast bowler Brendon Bracewell and nephew of Black Caps coach John Bracewell, was one
of two boys expelled from Masterton's private Rathkeale College for attacking sleeping boarders in a dormitory.
One student required hospital treatment after the incident but was not seriously injured.
The Herald on Sunday understands Brendon has since taken the Central Districts age-group representative to Australia.
Central Districts officials were none the wiser to his whereabouts when contacted.
CD chief executive Blair Furlong said he wasn't sure exactly where the Bracewells were but was hoping Doug would return in time for the 2007-08 season.
"I think he's gone but we're not sure at the moment. We don't have a lot to do with cricketers at this time of year."
It is alleged that Bracewell and another day pupil entered a dormitory one Saturday night and went from room to room, dragging sleeping boys from their beds and hitting some at random.
The matter was referred to Youth Aid by Masterton police and the matter was not taken to court.
Bracewell was an under-17 representative for CD last year but the paceman has already caught the eye of top brass at New Zealand Cricket.
"Vaughn Johnson [national seam bowling coach] had a look at him about six weeks ago," Furlong said. "He's a promising lad. He's got a lot going for him. We'd love to have him back."
Brendon Bracewell was also a young prodigy, playing for New Zealand when just 18 and impressing in his early tests before recurrent back injuries ruined his career.
A level three coach, Brendon Bracewell had been operating the Bracewell Cricket Academy based at Rathkeale College. The academy attracted around 20 players from England last season.
