New Zealand Cricket has entered in a new era with the appointment of Amelia Kerr as captain of the White Ferns across all formats. The 25-year-old all-rounder takes over the leadership mantle from Sophie Devine, who retired from ODIs following the recent World Cup and stepped down from T20I captaincy.
Kerr’s first assignment as full-time skipper will be a home ODI and T20I series against Zimbabwe, beginning with a three-match T20I series in Hamilton on February 25. The squads for the tour are set to be announced on February 20, marking the official start of a fresh chapter for New Zealand women’s cricket.
A right-hand batter and leg-break bowler, Kerr has already built an impressive resume despite her young age. Since making her international debut in 2016, she has featured in 84 WODIs, amassing 2,304 runs at an average of 41.14 while also claiming 106 wickets at 30.61. In T20Is, she has played 88 matches, scoring 1,453 runs at a strike rate of 109.74 and picking up 95 wickets with an economy rate of 6.09.
Beyond her international exploits, Kerr has also demonstrated leadership credentials in domestic cricket. She captained Wellington Blaze to back-to-back Super Smash titles in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons, underlining her tactical awareness and calm presence under pressure.
“Growing up it was my childhood dream to represent New Zealand and to now have the opportunity to captain my country is a massive privilege. I’m really excited by the growth, the talent and the dedication of this group and the potential of what we can achieve and where we can go together,” Kerr said on her appointment.
I am following 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 for representing Aotearoa.
“The captaincy doesn’t change who I am, I am still the same person and will give everything I can to lead this group and hopefully bring our country success.”
Head coach Ben Sawyer praised Kerr’s maturity and deep understanding of what it means to wear the White Ferns badge. He described her as an outstanding leader who commands respect both on and off the field. Sawyer believes that leading the national side will elevate her game further and provide continuity and stability as the team builds towards the 2029 cycle.
“We believe leading the White Ferns can take Melie’s game to the next level and know she’s ready to step up and lead this team forward. Melie leading this team at this stage of her career ensures we have continuity and stability through the next cycle to 2029,” the head coach said.
Kerr’s appointment signals a forward-looking approach by New Zealand Cricket, blending youth with experience and placing faith in a player who has already proven herself as a match-winner. As she steps into this significant role, all eyes will be on how she shapes the next generation of White Ferns and leads them into a new competitive era.
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