Covid protocols, life in the bio-bubble, and lockdowns have put athletes across all fields of sport under immense stress. Stars like Ben Stokes, Michael Phelps, Naomi Osaka, and Simone Biles withdrawing from major sporting events to focus on their mental health have encouraged more athletes to speak up for themselves.
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Another such instance took place when New Zealand leg-spinner Amelia Kerr withdrew from this year’s WBBL as she wishes to focus on her mental health.
With the WBBL commencing on 14th October, Amelia informed that she will not be taking the field for Brisbane Heat this year. She said it was a “tough decision” for her as she loved being a part of the league.
Before announcing her withdrawal from WBBL, she had also pulled out from ongoing New Zealand’s white-ball tour of England.
The 20-year-old made her WBBL debut at the age of 16 and was a part of the Brisbane heat’s trophy-winning squad.
When interviewed by Laura Jolly for cricket.com.au, she said “I am very grateful for the Heat’s support. I am making really good progress and want to keep that going. It’s a tough decision as I love representing the Brisbane Heat and can’t speak highly enough of the support team and players, I will be following the tournament with great interest and cheering the team on from New Zealand.”
“We have been in regular contact with Melie (Amelia), her family, and wider support network and fully understand and support the decision she has made, She has been honest and brave with her decisions and the Heat will be ready and willing to assist her in the future, whether for a return to playing or simply as part of her Australian circle of friends and teammates who will happily do what is best for her,” said Brisbane Heat’s head coach, Ashley Noffke.
Brisbane heat is now looking for players to fill one overseas spot in this year’s squad.
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