New Zealand cricketer Melie Kerr has been crowned ICC Women’s T20 Cricketer of the Year for her stellar performances at the Women’s T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates. The 24-year-old allrounder helped the White Ferns secure their first-ever T20 World Cup title, taking a record-breaking 15 wickets at an average of just 7.33 with her precise leg-spin. Her efforts also earned her the Player of the Tournament award.
Kerr’s heroics shone brightest during the tournament’s knockout stages. In the semi-final against the West Indies, she claimed two vital wickets, including the dismissal of star batter Deandra Dottin, as New Zealand won by eight runs. In the final against South Africa, Kerr scored 43 runs off 38 balls, leading her team to a competitive total of 158-5. She then delivered a brilliant bowling performance, taking 3-24, helping the White Ferns restrict the Proteas to 126-9 and claim the championship.
Reflecting on the achievement, Kerr said, “Winning a World Cup has been my dream since I was a kid. To celebrate with my teammates feels like a family moment I’ll cherish forever.”
Kerr’s impressive form extended throughout 2024, setting a New Zealand record with 29 T20 wickets in a single year, while also scoring 387 runs. She was the only White Fern included in the ICC Women’s T20 Team of the Year.
The ICC is announcing its cricket awards over several days, with more honors expected soon. Other New Zealanders recognized so far include Kane Williamson and Matt Henry, who were named in the ICC Men’s Test Team of the Year.
