WBBL 2021-22: Amelia Kerr withdraws from the upcoming season to focus on her mental health

New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr is not going to participate in the seventh edition of Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) as she wished to give priority to mental health and wellbeing. Kerr had made this decision just before her team’s tour to England. The New Zealand Cricket (NZC) appreciated the all-rounder’s decision to step aside from the game and has afforded to help her in whatever capacity possible.

Kerr is one of the vital players in WBBL. Her contribution to Brisbane Heat is unparalleled over the past few years or so. Be it her loopy leg breaks or her googlies, Kerr has managed to deceive. In the two seasons for Heat so far, the leg-spinner has managed to pick 31 wickets in 30 matches. With the bat in hand, she has managed to chip in with useful contributions and has scored 204 runs.

Kerr was also instrumental in Heat lifting the title in the 2019 edition. Naturally, it will be a huge loss for the team to lose her but, Kerr is keen to make mental health a priority for the time being. “I am making really good progress and want to keep that going,” Kerr said in a statement to as quoted by Suff.co.nz.

“It’s a tough decision as I love representing the Brisbane Heat and can’t speak highly enough of the support team and players.”

The 20-year-old though will be keenly following heat’s proceedings from New Zealand and is all set to cheer for the side to win its third WBBL title. “I will be following the tournament with great interest and cheering the team on from New Zealand.”

Ashley Noffke is in full support of Amelia Kerr opting out of WBBL

Heat head coach Ashley Noffke has now got a task in hand to fill one overseas spot left vacant by Kerr’s absence. The head coach though is in full support of the decision the all-rounder has made and has offered to support her.

“We have been in regular contact with Melie, her family, and wider support network and fully understand and support the decision she has made,” Noffke said.

“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 team-mates who will happily do what is best for her.”