New Zealand then announced a new all-format captain for the women’s side, with a new chapter beginning Sophie Devine later resigned from the role ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 in October. The decision signals a new era for the White Ferns as they prepare for a packed international calendar over the next three years.
New Zealand Cricket appoints new leader of Women’s side
New Zealand Cricket entrusted him with the captaincy Amelia Kerrnamed the young star as the full-time leader of both the ODI and T20I teams. Kerr takes over from Devine, who has seen the side go through a significant phase, including the last global tournament.
Having already captained New Zealand in two ODIs and two T20Is, Kerr is no stranger to leadership responsibilities. However, this marks his first long-term stint behind the wheel. His appointment comes at a crucial time, with New Zealand set to defend their T20 World Cup crown. England ICC T20 Champions Trophy later this year Sri Lanka In 2027 and a historic Olympic appearance Los Angeles In 2028, along with another T20 World Cup.
Head coach Ben Sawyer He supported the decision, stressing that Kerr has a deep understanding of what it means to represent New Zealand. He highlighted his impact both on and off the court, noting the respect he commands in the locker room and his leadership experience with the Wellington Blaze over the past three seasons. According to Sawyer, the move reflects a long-term vision aimed at ensuring stability and sustainability through 2029.
“He is an outstanding leader not only in terms of his performances on the field but also in terms of the respect he has outside the group. He understands the game well and has strong leadership experience from his time as captain of the White Ferns and during his time in charge of the Wellington Blaze over the last three years. Meli leads this team at this stage of his career and provides us with stability in our next round,”20. Sawyer was quoted in the New Zealand Cricket release.
Impressive records and a great player
Kerr’s stature is built on a remarkable cricketing resume. After making his international debut in 2016 at the age of just 16, he has become one of the most reliable all-rounders in world cricket. Across formats, he scored 3,757 runs and 201 wickets – figures that place him among New Zealand’s elite performers. She currently ranks as the country’s third-highest goalscorer and fifth-highest goalscorer in women’s internationals.
His impact was particularly evident during New Zealand’s victorious 2024 T20 World Cup campaign, where he played a starring role and was named Player of the Tournament. This golden run was followed by another milestone when he became the first New Zealander to win the prestigious race. Rachael Heyhoe-Flint Trophy As the ICC Women’s Player of the Year – recognition of her consistency, composure and match-winning ability.
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The star cricketer reacts after becoming the captain of the all-format White Ferns
Speaking after the announcement, Kerr described the appointment as “a great privilege” and a dream come true. Representing New Zealand has always been close to his heart and leading the side, he says, adds a special layer of responsibility.
Kerr made it clear that his leadership style would be rooted in a people-first philosophy. From a favorite Maori proverb – “He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” – he emphasized that people are at the center of everything. For him, success will come from building trust, celebrating teammates’ accomplishments, and fostering a culture of unity.
“Growing up it was my childhood dream to represent New Zealand and now to have the opportunity to captain my country is a great privilege. I follow an exceptional group of leaders who have captained the White Ferns before me, so I don’t take the responsibility lightly. I have so much love for this group and so much passion to represent Aotearoa. I can still change my captaincy. lead this group and hopefully bring success to our country.” Kerr said.
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This article was originally published here WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
