Melie Kerr named ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Year 2024

New Zealand all-rounder Melie Kerr has been named the ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Year for 2024, following a remarkable year in T20I cricket that saw her lead New Zealand to their first-ever T20 World Cup title.

The 24-year-old star played a pivotal role in her team’s success, including being named Player of the Tournament at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Kerr’s outstanding all-round performances helped the White Ferns secure the title in the UAE, where she delivered crucial contributions with both bat and ball.

Kerr becomes only the second New Zealand cricketer to win this prestigious award, following in the footsteps of her World Cup-winning teammate, Suzie Bates, who claimed the title in 2016.

In 2024, Kerr showcased her skills with both bat and ball, scoring 387 runs and taking 29 wickets in 18 matches. Her 29 wickets in a single calendar year is the most ever by a New Zealand woman cricketer, and she claimed wickets at a remarkable strike rate of 13.6. 

Kerr’s performance in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup was especially memorable. She took 15 wickets in the tournament, the most ever by a single bowler at a Women’s T20 World Cup, and finished with an exceptional average of 7.33 and an economy rate of 4.85. She also played a key role with the bat, scoring 135 runs in six innings at an average of 27, finishing as one of the top ten run-scorers in the tournament.

Kerr’s contributions in the World Cup were pivotal, especially during the knockout stages. In the semi-final against West Indies, her 2/14 was crucial in helping New Zealand defend a small total, with her most significant moment being the key wicket of Deandra Dottin at a crucial point in the match.

Her efforts in the final against South Africa were nothing short of exceptional. Kerr top-scored with 43 runs from 38 balls, anchoring New Zealand's innings as they posted a competitive total. With the ball, she played a crucial role in shifting the momentum of the game, taking 3/24 in her four overs, including two quick wickets in one over to dismiss South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch.

Kerr also showcased her fielding skills, pulling off a stunning catch to dismiss Nadine de Klerk.

Reflecting on the honor, Kerr expressed her gratitude, calling it a "huge honor" to be named the ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Year. Her performance in 2024 not only helped New Zealand to World Cup glory but also solidified her place as one of the best all-rounders in the world.