As the world of women’s cricket continues to evolve, few players embody the spirit of versatility and excellence as Amelia Kerr. This 24-year-old Kiwi star, touted as a “once-in-a-generation player” by fellow legend Sophie Devine, has consistently proven herself in high-pressure situations, carving out a niche as one of the finest in the game.
Amelia Kerr features for Mumbai Indians in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and is currently the 5th highest run-scorer for the franchise with 426 runs at a strike rate of 120.67 and an impressive average of 26.62 in 22 innings with the bat. Besides her vital contributions with the bat, she is also currently the 2nd highest wicket-taker for Mumbai with 32 wickets at an average of 18.18 and an economy of 7.39 in 25 innings with the ball for her side in WPL so far.
She recently became the first Mumbai Indians bowler to take a five-wicket haul for her franchise in the tournament. On 6th March 2025, in their only game in the 3rd phase of WPL 2025 in Lucknow, against the home side, UP Warriorz, she returned with a match-defining spell of 4-0-38-5. It is also her WPL career-best figures, to go along with a four-wicket haul in the tournament so far.
Kerr’s enthusiasm for her role is evident when she says, “Being an all-rounder is the best way to play cricket. It’s a lot more fun as a player.” This belief is rooted in the dual challenge of mastering two distinct skills, which she believes keeps her more engaged and motivated. The added responsibility also prepares her to handle the pressure of big moments. As she notes, “You want to be the player that steps up in the big moments.”
Kerr’s journey began early, with a passion for both batting and leg spin. Her dedication to mastering the craft of leg spin, a skill that requires endless practice, has paid off significantly. She recalls always wanting to bat but recognizing her initial lack of power, which evolved over time. Kerr’s highest individual score in Women’s ODIs, 232*, remains an iconic milestone which is intact till date, marking her as a prodigious talent from a young age.
Her ability to perform under pressure, and this capacity to step up in critical situations is not new, Kerr was the MVP of New Zealand’s T20 World Cup victory last year, where she delivered a stellar performance in the final, and played an instrumental role throughout the tournament. She was the leading wicket-taker with 15 wickets at a sensational average of 7.33 and an economy of 4.85 in six innings. She was also the 3rd highest run-scorer for her side with 135 runs at an average of 27 in six innings.
She also played a crucial role in the final against South Africa, scoring 43 (38 balls) and returning figures of 4-0-24-3, earning her the Player of the Match award, along with a well-deserved accolade of being also named the Player of the Tournament for her all-round contributions for the White Ferns throughout the tournament.
She scored 387 runs at an average of 24.18 in 18 innings with the bat for the White Ferns in the T20I format in 2024, while also picking up 29 wickets at an impressive average of 15.55 and an economy of 6.81 in 18 innings with the ball for her side in the format in 2024. She picked up 14 wickets at an average of 27.42 and an economy of 5.12 in nine innings with the ball, to go along with 264 runs with an impressive average of 33 in nine innings with the bat for her side in the ODI format in 2024. Her returns highlighted a dream year she had at the international level, which also earned her the recognition of being named as the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year 2024.
When bowling in India compared to back home, Kerr highlights the importance of adapting to different environments. “On these grounds, it’s important to take wickets but also deny runs and build pressure,” she emphasizes. The shorter boundaries demand greater precision and creativity, making variations crucial for a leg-spinner. Kerr’s experience has been shaped by years of intense practice and an openness to learning and innovation.
Kerr is part of a growing group of genuine all-rounders in women’s cricket, including names like Hayley Matthews, Nat Sciver-Brunt, and Jess Jonassen. This shift reflects a broader trend where more players are developing both batting and bowling prowess, partly due to the opportunities provided by franchise leagues. As Kerr puts it, “You’re seeing a lot more all-rounders in the women’s game now.”
Kerr’s journey is also a testament to the resilience and ambition of smaller cricketing nations. She recalls watching the White Ferns play in 2010 and dreaming of winning a World Cup. Achieving that dream last year meant everything to her. “We Kiwis often punch above our weight,” she proudly says, highlighting the triumph over adversity.
As Amelia Kerr continues to inspire with her craft and determination, her role in shaping the future of women’s cricket is already being felt. Whether it’s thrilling crowds with her leg spin or adding quick runs to the scoreboard, Kerr remains an integral part of the evolving landscape of the sport. As she looks to lead Mumbai Indians to another WPL title, her influence on the pitch remains undeniable, symbolizing the power of hard work and passion in sports.
(Quotes sourced from Hindustan Times)
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