Virender Sehwag, known for his fearless and aggressive batting style, dominated bowlers around the world during his cricketing career. However, even the most formidable players have their kryptonite. For Sehwag, one bowler who consistently troubled him was Australia’s left-arm pacer Nathan Bracken. Despite being one of the most potent bowlers of his time, Bracken’s name is often mentioned with a sense of irony. Not only did he become a thorn in Sehwag’s side, but he also surprised the cricketing world by turning down a lucrative IPL contract, choosing a different path after his cricketing career ended.
Nathan Bracken: A Sehwag Nemesis
Nathan Bracken was one of Australia’s most reliable bowlers, known for his accuracy and ability to swing the ball both ways. His calm behaviour on the field masked his sharp skills, which made him particularly effective against aggressive batsmen like Virender Sehwag. Bracken and Sehwag faced off in 16 innings across different formats, with the Australian pacer managing to dismiss Sehwag seven times. During these encounters, Sehwag, who was known for his ability to dominate bowlers, struggled against Bracken, scoring 148 runs off 233 deliveries.
Bracken’s ability to consistently trouble Sehwag was remarkable, considering the latter’s reputation for tearing apart bowling attacks. Sehwag’s free-flowing style was often halted by Bracken’s disciplined line and length, combined with subtle variations that made him a difficult bowler to face. This consistency in getting the better of Sehwag earned Bracken a special place in cricketing discussions, especially when talking about bowlers who had a psychological edge over the Indian batting maestro.
A Flourishing Career Cut Short
Nathan Bracken’s international career, though successful, was unfortunately cut short due to a knee injury. Bracken played his last international match for Australia in 2009. Over his career, he played in all three formats of the game, taking more than 200 wickets, with his most significant impact being in One Day Internationals (ODIs), where he claimed 174 wickets in 116 matches. His ability to perform consistently in ODIs made him a key player for Australia during his playing days.
However, despite his on-field success, Bracken’s career came to an abrupt end in 2011 when he announced his retirement due to ongoing knee problems. His decision to step away from the game at the age of 33 left many fans wondering what could have been if injuries hadn’t hampered his career.
Turning Down IPL Riches
In 2011, when the Indian Premier League (IPL) was gaining momentum, Bracken was offered a lucrative contract by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The franchise was willing to pay him ₹1.3 crore to join their ranks, a testament to his reputation as a top-class bowler. However, in a surprising move, Bracken declined the offer, citing his injury concerns and the physical demands of T20 cricket as reasons for his decision. This decision raised eyebrows, as the IPL was becoming a platform where cricketers from around the world sought to showcase their talent and earn substantial financial rewards.
Bracken’s refusal to play in the IPL after signing the contract highlighted his pragmatic approach towards his career. He understood the limitations his injury imposed and chose not to push his body beyond its capacity. While many cricketers might have been tempted by the money and fame the IPL offered, Bracken’s decision showed his maturity and understanding of his physical condition.
Life After Cricket
After retiring from cricket, Nathan Bracken transitioned into a completely different career. Today, he works as an account manager for a company based in Sydney, Australia. This shift from the cricket field to the corporate world is a reminder of how athletes must often reinvent themselves after their playing days are over. Bracken’s choice to step away from the limelight and settle into a more conventional job might seem unusual for someone who was once at the peak of international cricket, but it reflects his grounded nature and realistic outlook on life.
Bracken’s story is a fascinating one—a tale of a cricketer who not only mastered his craft on the field but also knew when to walk away. His ability to consistently trouble a batsman of Sehwag’s caliber speaks volumes about his skill, while his decision to turn down IPL riches shows a side of him that valued well-being over wealth. In the end, Nathan Bracken may not be the most celebrated cricketer, but his legacy as a bowler who challenged the best and made wise choices for his future remains intact.
