New Zealand has named a new all-format captain for their women’s team following Sophie Devine’s resignation after the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 in October. This marks a new era for the White Ferns as they prepare for an busy International schedule over the next three years.
New Zealand Cricket appoints new captain for Women’s team
New Zealand Cricket has appointed Amelia Kerr as the full-time captain of both the ODI and T20I teams. Kerr succeeds Devine, who led the team during a crucial period, including the recent world tournament.
Kerr has previously captained New Zealand in two ODIs and two T20Is, making her familiar with leadership roles. However, this is her first long-term appointment. Her new role comes at an important time, as New Zealand aims to defend their T20 World Cup title in England later this year, followed by the ICC T20 Champions Trophy in Sri Lanka in 2027 and an Olympic appearance in Los Angeles in 2028, in addition to another T20 World Cup.
Head coach Ben Sawyer supported the decision, noting Kerr’s strong understanding of representing New Zealand. He emphasized her influence on and off the field and the respect she garners in the team. Sawyer highlighted her leadership experience with the Wellington Blaze over the last three seasons. He stated that this decision aligns with a long-term vision for stability and continuity through to 2029.
“She’s an outstanding leader both through her performances and the respect she commands in the team. She understands the game well and brings valuable leadership experience from her time captaining the White Ferns and the Wellington Blaze. Having Melie lead this team now helps ensure we have continuity through the next cycle to 2029,” said Sawyer in a New Zealand Cricket announcement.
Achievements and strong player background
Kerr’s rise to captaincy is supported by her impressive cricket achievements. Since her debut in 2016 at just 16, she has become one of the reliable all-rounders in global cricket. Across formats, she has scored 3,757 runs and taken 201 wickets, making her one of New Zealand’s top players. Currently, she stands as the third-highest wicket-taker and fifth-highest run-scorer in women’s internationals in New Zealand.
Her impact was particularly notable during New Zealand’s successful 2024 T20 World Cup, where she was named Player of the Tournament. She also made history by becoming the first New Zealander to win the Rachael Heyhoe-Flint Trophy as the ICC Women’s Player of the Year, a testament to her consistent performance and ability to win matches.
Kerr speaks on becoming all-format White Ferns captain
After the announcement, Kerr expressed her excitement, calling the appointment a ‘massive privilege’ and a dream come true. She added that representing New Zealand has always meant a lot to her, and leading the team brings an additional layer of responsibility.
Kerr stated her leadership will center on a people-first approach. Citing a favorite Māori proverb — “He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” — she emphasized the importance of people. She believes that success will come from building confidence, celebrating teammates’ achievements, and promoting unity.
“As a child, my dream was to represent New Zealand, and now to have the chance to captain my country is a huge privilege. I’m following a great line of leaders before me, and I take this responsibility seriously. I have a lot of love for this team and am passionate about representing Aotearoa. The captaincy doesn’t change who I am; I’ll give everything to lead this group and aim for success,” Kerr said.
