Amelia Kerr opts out of WBBL07 to focus on mental health

Amelia Kerr will miss the seventh season of the Women’s Big Bash League to focus on her mental health, cricket.com.au reported on Friday (September 10). Kerr already opted out of New Zealand’s tour of England for the same reason.



“I am very grateful for the Heat's support,” Kerr was quoted as saying.



“I am making really good progress and want to keep that going. It's a tough decision as I love representing the Brisbane Heat and can't speak highly enough of the support team and players.”



"I will be following the tournament with great interest and cheering the team on from New Zealand.”



The 20-year-old was part of Heat’s victorious WBBL campaign. She picked 14 wickets in the season and scored 107 runs. Kerr’s withdrawal opens an overseas spot for the team in teal.



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



“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 teammates who will happily do what is best for her.”



South Africa duo Nadine de Klerk and Anneke Bosch are the two overseas players in the Heat squad so far.



Squad so far: Jess Jonassen (c), Anneke Bosch, Nadine de Klerk, Grace Harris, Laura Kimmince, Mikayla Hinkley, Charli Knott, Georgia Prestwidge, Georgia Redmayne, Georgia Voll