CWG: Big setback for New Zealand women's cricket as all-rounder Kerr tests positive for Covid-19

Jul 18, 2022

CWG: Big setback for New Zealand women's cricket as all-rounder Kerr tests positive for Covid-19 Image

The news that standout all-rounder Amelia Kerr tested positive for Covid-19 has caused a significant setback in New Zealand's preparations for the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. 

The 21-year-old tested positive on Saturday in England and will be isolated in a hotel for the ensuing week from the rest of her teammates. 

On July 29, the Commonwealth Games get underway. 

The White Ferns will continue to monitor and test the rest of the team before games against England A later this week. Kerr is the only New Zealand player to have tested positive, according to the ICC.

After those exhibition games, New Zealand will move from their training location at Somerset's Millfield School to Birmingham in time for the beginning of the Commonwealth Games at the end of the month. 

For the eight-team competition, New Zealand is in Group B. Their first matchup is against South Africa at Edgbaston on July 30. 

Kerr was one of the first five players chosen by the ICC as "100% Cricket Superstars" earlier this month and is anticipated to be a key contributor to New Zealand's success in Birmingham.

The right-hander, who is equally skilled with the ball, holds the record for the youngest player to achieve a double century in women's cricket after her magnificent unbeaten 232 against Ireland at the age of just 17 years and 243 days. 

Kerr contributed with nine crucial wickets and 201 runs from seven matches during the last ICC Women's Cricket World Cup held on home soil.

New Zealand Commonwealth Games squad: Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Lauren Down, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Hayley Jensen, Fran Jonas, Jess Kerr, Amelia Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Jess McFadyen, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe.