New Zealand skipper Amelia Kerr has backed the White Ferns to retain their ICC Women's T20 World Cup title in England next month, pointing to a deeper squad and the self-belief forged by their 2024 triumph in the UAE. The tournament runs from 12 June to 5 July, and marks Kerr's first major global event as captain after succeeding long-serving skipper Sophie Devine.

Kerr's Confidence in Squad Depth

Writing in her column for the ICC, Kerr said the growth in New Zealand's squad since their last title win is the most encouraging sign heading into the defence. 'Becoming champions two years ago was an incredible achievement, and it has given us belief as we look to do it again,' she wrote. 'In the two years since we lifted the trophy, our depth has improved.'

Kerr highlighted several players stepping up at crucial moments — notably Izzy Gaze, who has delivered across multiple games, and Rosemary Mair, who recently took a five-wicket haul against South Africa. 'There are so many different players putting their hands up and putting in significant performances for their country,' she noted.

Kerr's Own Form and Captaincy

Kerr enters the tournament in exceptional personal form, having scored 276 runs in the home T20I series against South Africa and extending a record streak of 11 consecutive 30-plus scores in the shortest format. She is currently the top-ranked all-rounder in the women's T20I rankings.

On leading the side for the first time at a World Cup, Kerr said she has embraced both the tactical and off-field dimensions of captaincy. '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,' she wrote. 'I want to lead from the front, step up and take responsibility.'

Farewell for Three Legends

The tournament will serve as a farewell for three of New Zealand cricket's most celebrated players — Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates, and Lea Tahuhu — all of whom are set to retire after the competition. Kerr paid tribute to the trio, calling them 'greats of New Zealand cricket' and expressing hope that the team can send them off with a winning performance.

At the same time, debutants Nensi Patel and Izzy Sharp will play their first World Cup, continuing a generational transition within the squad. Kerr recalled her own debut at the 2017 Women's T20 World Cup in the UK, calling it 'a special opportunity' for the new entrants.

Preparation and Group Stage Outlook

New Zealand are placed in Group 2 alongside England, Ireland, Scotland, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies. Kerr said the pre-tournament white-ball series against England — covering both ODIs and T20Is — will be critical preparation. 'Playing cricket is the best practice,' she wrote, adding that a 'strengths-based approach' will be key to another title run.

Kerr also spoke of the broader impact a successful campaign could have on grassroots cricket in New Zealand, expressing hope that the White Ferns' performances inspire the next generation. With three legends bowing out and a new captain at the helm, the 2025 ICC Women's T20 World Cup shapes up as a defining moment for New Zealand women's cricket.