Cricket World Cup: White Ferns Amelia, Jess Kerr embrace home support of family, friends against Australia at Basin Reserve

The White Ferns face their biggest challenge of the Cricket World Cup so far, when they take on tournament favourites Australia in the capital on Sunday.

Their chances will be impacted by the performances of local stars Amelia and Jess Kerr, who'll have plenty of support on the Basin Reserve bank. 

That's where you'll find Mackay, Maddox and Frankie - the next generation of Kerrs - who are excited to watch and support cousins Amelia and Jess in action for the White Ferns. 

"It's cool watching them do well and play in a World Cup," says Mackay. 

"I reckon Jess’ bowling is quite inspirational and Melie's batting is good," says Maddox. 

They'll be in the crowd alongside Jess and Amelia's parents - Robbie and Jo - and about 40 other members of their family and friends. 

"To play the best team at your homeground, it's an exciting occasion," says Robbie Kerr.

They're very proud parents.  

"When it hits me the most, I suppose, is when they're side by side singing the national anthem," says Jo. "To be able to do something like that together is a pretty special moment."

Says Amelia: "The great thing is Jess is a great singer, so you sound a whole lot better too."

The extra support off the field is invaluable. 

"To play in Wellington, alongside your sister and with your extended family all on the bank, is pretty special," says Amelia.

"It's just icing on the top, knowing you're playing for your country and they're all going to be there cheering us on," says Jess.

Having their cousins in attendance also reminds the sisters what this World Cup means to the game in New Zealand, especially among young girls following in their footsteps.

"I absolutely love playing cricket and it's awesome, getting the chance to represent New Zealand absolutely love it, and then to go watch you little cousins play, you remember why you fell in love with the sport," says Amelia.

Unlike many players, Amelia Kerr doesn't number her bats, she instead names them after her three cousins.

"When she uses the Maddox and Mackay bats, she doesn't really pump the ball," says Frankie. "But when she uses the Frankie, she always smashes it all the time."

Jess Kerr (right) celebrates a wicket with NZ teammate Katey Martin
Jess Kerr (right) celebrates a wicket with NZ teammate Katey Martin. Photo credit: Photosport

Will she use the Frankie bat against Australia? 

"Yup, she better!"

The bat-naming convention has sparked quite intense rivalry among the siblings, who claim bragging rights whenever theirs is the preferred option.

"I get a phone call after each innings from the kids saying, 'what bat did you use today?' I tell them, 'It's still Frankie, it's still Frankie' and I think the boys are pretty gutted.

"Then I'll get a call saying, 'Did you use my bat at training?' and I'll tell them, 'No, I'm just using Frankie'.

"Frankie absolutely loves it and gets to have one up on her older brothers. Frankie's the go and Frankie will be used tomorrow."

The Kerr sisters' biggest fans hope it can give them something to really cheer about.

Join us at 11am Sunday for live updates of the White Ferns v Australian World Cup clash