Bracewell pleads guilty to drink-driving

New Zealand fast-bowler Doug Bracewell has pleaded guilty to drink-driving after being caught at the wheel in Hawke's Bay more than three times over the legal limit.

Bracewell was pulled over on March 18 in Haumoana and found to have an alcohol reading of 783 micrograms in his system.

The legal limit is 250 micrograms.

Bracewell appeared at Hastings District Court on Thursday on charges of drink-driving and careless driving, and pleaded guilty to the former charge.

The charge of careless driving was withdrawn.

"I made a massive mistake by driving that evening and apologise unreservedly for my actions," the 26-year-old said in a NZ Cricket statement.

"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."

With two alcohol-related offences to his name, Bracewell will be sentenced next month under provisions for offenders who have had multiple drink-driving convictions.

The paceman, who's played 27 Tests for the Black Caps, fell foul of authorities in 2012 after he and Jesse Ryder were involved in an altercation with a patron in a bar following a one-day international against South Africa.

Bracewell and Ryder were also sanctioned in February 2014 for staying out late and drinking on the eve of the first Test against India in Auckland.

NZC chief executive David White expressed his disappointment in the actions of Bracewell, who has not played for his country in any format since last year's tour of India.

"Driving responsibly and considerately is a key part of creating safer communities, and, as Doug has said himself, he should have known better," said White.

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