New Zealand allrounder Amelia Kerr has withdrawn from this season's WBBL with Brisbane Heat to continue managing her mental health.
Kerr, who signed a two-year deal with Heat last season, opted out of the ongoing tour of England to prioritise her mental health and wellbeing and does not feel ready to return.
"I am very grateful for the Heat's support,'' Kerr said. "I am making really good progress and want to keep that going. It's a tough decision as I love representing the Brisbane Heat and can't speak highly enough of the support team and players."
In 30 matches for Heat, Kerr has taken 31 wickets at 20.16 with an economy of 5.80 which makes her the fifth-most economical bowler in WBBL history of those who have sent down at least 100 overs.
"We have been in regular contact with Melie, her family and wider support network and fully understand and support the decision she has made,'' Heat's head coach Ashley Noffke said.
"She has been honest and brave with her decisions and the Heat will be ready and willing to assist her in the future, whether for a return to playing or simply as part of her Australian circle of friends and teammates who will happily do what is best for her. Melie knows we will be ready to pitch in and help whenever she is ready."
Noffke said the club would assess its options for their third overseas slot having previously signed South Africa duo Nadine de Klerk and Anneke Bosch.
The competition is due to get underway on October 14 with the early matches currently schedule for Sydney set to be moved due the ongoing Covid-19 situation in New South Wales.