Kerr roots for White Ferns to defend T20 World Cup title

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New Zealand skipper Melie Kerr believes the team has a good chance to win the ICC Women's T20 World Cup trophy again, carrying good form and an even better squad depth this time around. 

"In the two years since we lifted the trophy, our depth has improved.

"The most pleasing thing of late is when we have been successful, it has involved different players stepping up at different times.

"Izzy Gaze has done so in a few games, Rosemary Mair got a five-for recently against South Africa, there are so many different players putting their hands up and putting in significant performances for their country," the White Ferns skipper wrote in the ICC column.

Kerr herself has been in impeccable form, with the captaincy bringing out the best in her. Against the Proteas, she was unstoppable amassing 276 runs, extending a record-breaking streak of 11 consecutive 30+ scores in T20Is.

"On a personal note, I’ve really enjoyed captaining since coming into the role earlier this year," she added.

The performance also led to her rise to become the ICC No.1 Women's T20I all-rounder.

"I’ve always loved thinking about the game, so I'm enjoying the tactical side of it as well as the off-field elements, such as how to get the best out of the people around you.

"It's a pleasure to lead this group, and I want to lead from the front, step up and take responsibility."

New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad is a mixture of youth and experience, with Suzie Bates and Sophie Devine appearing at their 10th T20 World Cup and newcomers Nensi Patel and Izzy Sharp featuring at their maiden edition of the tournament.

"I remember my first World Cup for New Zealand was in the UK in 2017, and this year Nensi (Patel) and Izzy Sharp are appearing at their first one, which is such a special opportunity for them."

Kerr also shared her thoughts about the experienced trio set to retire post the marquee event. 

"We have three of the greats leaving the group after this competition in the form of Sophie (Devine), Suzie (Bates) and Lea (Tahuhu).

"When you are talking about greats of New Zealand cricket, they are three names who will always be thrown around.

"Winning and success helps but in terms of what we can control off the field, hopefully we can make it a really special last tour for them."

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The White Ferns will take on hosts England in a three-match T20I series, before heading onto the main event, where they will feature in Group 2 and lock horns against England, Ireland, Scotland, Sri Lanka and the West Indies. 

"Playing England in ODIs and T20Is in the run up is a great way to prepare for the World Cup," Kerr said.

The all-rounder believes the team has it in them to achieve success once again in the global event. 

"Becoming champions two years ago was an incredible achievement and it has given us belief as we look to do it again.

"Ultimately, we've done it before and we know we are capable of doing it, so the main factor is that belief.

"If we have a strengths-based approach and nail the things we do really well, we have a good chance of winning the World Cup," she concludes.