
New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr is optimistic about the transformative impact of the new deal between New Zealand Cricket (NZC) and the country’s major cricket associations on the women’s game. The five-year master agreement ensures that women cricketers will receive the same match fees as their male counterparts, a significant step towards gender equality in cricket.
Kerr, who recently celebrated her victory in the inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL) with the Mumbai Indians women’s team, believes that the availability of full-time professional contracts will enable NZC to invest more in women’s cricket. The 22-year-old emphasized the importance of training every day to improve performance, and she sees the opportunity for women to work harder on their game with the support of full-time professionalism.
In the past, the New Zealand women’s team had a mix of full-time professionals and players balancing cricket with other work commitments. However, Kerr expressed enthusiasm about the entire team now being able to focus solely on cricket as full-time professionals. This allows them to dedicate more time and effort to training and honing their skills.
“We want to perform at the highest level, and the only way to achieve that is through consistent training and focus,” Kerr stated during the Kiwis’ training camp ahead of their tour of Sri Lanka. “Being full-time professional athletes means we can work harder, and that’s our job. We show up every day with the dedication and commitment to perform.”
Kerr’s comments highlight the significance of the NZC contract in elevating the women’s game in New Zealand. The increased investment and commitment to professionalism have the potential to drive the development and success of women’s cricket in the country, empowering athletes to reach new heights and inspire future generations.
With the opportunity to train and compete as full-time professionals, New Zealand’s women cricketers can strive for excellence and contribute to the continued growth of the game at both the domestic and international levels. The NZC contract marks a significant milestone in advancing gender equality in cricket and provides a platform for female athletes to excel and shine on the world stage.