In a remarkable culmination to the ICC Awards 2024, New Zealand all-rounder Melie Kerr has been named the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year, receiving the prestigious Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy. This accolade marks Kerr as the first New Zealander to claim this honor, recognizing her exceptional performances across all formats of the game throughout the calendar year.
Kerr’s performances in the final of the T20 World Cup were particularly memorable. She top-scored for New Zealand with a crucial 43 runs from 38 balls, anchoring the innings after an early loss of wickets. With the ball, she turned the match on its head by taking three wickets for 24 runs, including two in a pivotal over that shifted the momentum back to New Zealand. Her all-round display earned her the Player of the Match in the final, capping off a year where she consistently delivered under pressure.
Kerr’s influence wasn’t limited to the T20 format. In One Day Internationals (ODIs), she scored 264 runs at an average of 33 and took 14 wickets. Her versatility and consistency across all formats of the game were key factors in her winning the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy. She surpassed notable contenders like Laura Wolvaardt, Chamari Athapaththu, and Annabel Sutherland to claim the award, showcasing her dominance in the sport.
Upon receiving the award, Kerr expressed her gratitude and humility, emphasizing the collective effort behind her individual success. “It’s a huge honor to win the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy for ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year,” Kerr stated, acknowledging the support network that helped her achieve such accolades. Her success not only highlights her personal achievements but also shines a light on the growing prowess of New Zealand women’s cricket on the global stage.