Melie Kerr says it’s a “massive privilege” to be named the new New Zealand captain after the all-rounder took over across all formats from Sophie Devine.

Devine, 36, captained the White Ferns from 2020 and led them to T20 World Cup glory against South Africa in 2024 but retired from ODI cricket after the 2025 World Cup while also giving up the T20I captaincy.

Kerr, who has represented New Zealand in 172 internationals, will captain the side for the first time in a home ODI and T20I series against Zimbabwe, which begins on 25 February.

“Growing up it was my childhood dream to represent New Zealand and to now have the opportunity to captain my country is a massive privilege,” the 25-year-old said.

“I am following an exceptional group of leaders who have captained the White Ferns before me, so I don’t take the responsibility lightly.

“The captaincy doesn’t change who I am. I am still the same person and will give everything I can to lead this group and hopefully bring our country success.”

Since making her debut as a 16-year-old in 2016, the all-rounder has scored 3,757 runs and taken 201 wickets across both formats.

Kerr was named the player of the tournament during their victorious T20 World Cup campaign in the United Arab Emirates after scoring 134 runs and picking up 15 wickets.

“Melie is an outstanding leader not only through her performances on the field, but also in the respect she has from the playing group off it,” said New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer.

“We believe leading the White Ferns can take Melie’s game to the next level and know she’s ready to step up and lead this team forward.”