Amelia Kerr, the New Zealand all-rounder, enjoys the challenges unique to playing India in a World Cup cricket tournament. She mentions the passionate support that Indian fans provide regardless of where they are and spin bowling’s significance in their strategy. For Kerr, taking on India’s elite batsmen has proved to be an exciting examination of her abilities especially in sub-continent conditions favouring spin.
“I think whenever you play India at a World Cup it is always a challenge because wherever you are in the world they have a crowd backing them up.And spin is vital for them.”
“Especially for me it’s great I think the ability to play spin well especially in subcontinent conditions. And some world-class (players) they got so I think for me that’s one match-up which I find most interesting and playing against them is always a difficult time,” Amelia said as captured by ICC 100% Cricket Superstars video and quoted by IANS.
As a bowler, her favourite mode of dismissal was flighted delivery that deceives the batter into stepping out of his crease leading to stumpings with Mithali Raj being dismissed during 2022 World Cup remains one of such memories.
“My best wicket ever is when they don’t read you. When you go through someone’s legs. Also, I guess probably the good ones are when those are game changing innings or key players like some of your better players in your team just give you something brilliant.” she continued.
Although originally known as a bowling all-rounder, Kerr has blossomed into an accomplished top-order batsman. Her journey at the top began at age 17 when her coach surprised her with an opening slot. This resulted in an historic unbeaten 232 against Ireland – highest individual score ever made by women cricketers – demonstrating incredible stroke play.
“I’m not really known around the world for my power game. Sophie Devine, the New Zealand veteran, is batting with you and she’s clearing the roof at the other end. But for me it’s all about placement and timing,” explained Kerr.
For Amelia, representing New Zealand side by side with her sister Jess Kerr holds deep meaning. It feels special to share moments like singing their national anthem.
“Some of the stuff that makes it cool is being able to do it alongside my sister but representing your country with your sister must be fantastic. We always sort of have this moment where we always sing the national anthem together. It just has something that’s really important for us. And one game which sticks out a lot was after I came back from mental health and we played India at home and we chased down 280. And so I batted between Jess in the middle and got a hundred that day and Jess hit off the last runs. We also had some tours apart when she was injure or I had mental health issues. So it felt pretty special for both us as well as our families,” concluded Kerr.
