32-year-old du Preez was part of the squad during the recently concluded Cricket World Cup 2022 in New Zealand. She played her last ODI when South Africa faced England in the second semi-final and scored 30-run during their loss.
I feel blessed and I'm extremely grateful for a fifteen year ODI crareer. The journey was special and I will treasure the memories and friendships for a lifetime.
Du Preez, who captained South Africa in 46 ODIs, scored 3760 runs at an average of 32.98 including two centuries and 18 fifties from 154 ODIs. In the only Test she played, she captained South Africa and made a century as well against India in 2014. She is the most capped South Africa player in 50-over format.
“I've been wonderfully fortunate to play in four ICC ODI World Cups to date. These have been some of my most treasured memories in life. I would however love to prioritise time with my family and hopefully start a family of my own soon,” du Preez said.
“I feel the time is right to announce my retirement from the longer format of the game and focus my attention on T20 cricket going forward. Thus, I decided to retire from ODI cricket at the completion of our recent World Cup in New Zealand.
Du Preez, who made her international debut in 2007, said South Africa cricket are in a good place and it’s the right time to move on from the 50-over format and let younger players to flourish. She also thanked CSA for all the support she received during her career.
“I feel South African women's cricket is in a very healthy state and the time is right to step away and allow the next generation of exciting cricketers to continue to grow this beautiful game of ours,” du Preez added.
“I would like to take a moment to thank everyone at Cricket South Africa and the Board for their continuous support during my ODI career. I am extremely grateful for the honour to have represented my country in 154 ODI games and also for the opportunity to have captained my country at the highest level.
In the final group stage match of the World Cup 2022, du Preez led South Africa to a win with a match-winning 50 against India during a record run chase. South Africa are scheduled to travel to England in June for a one-off Test and six limited over matches. If selected, the 32-year-old will be seen in action during the T20Is.
“Mignon is a champion of women’s cricket in South Africa and the world at large. A true example for any young girl who wants to take up the sport; that anything is possible through dedication, determination, and ever-lasting inquisitiveness to your craft while maintaining kindness and humility,” Pholetsi Moseki, CSA’s chief executive officer said.
Moseki thanked du Preez for all her contributions to cricket and added that she is one of the pioneers of modern cricket in South Africa.
“Although CSA is saddened by her departure from the longer formats of the game after more than 150 caps and 3,000 runs, we will take solace from the legacy she leaves behind and await with pleasure to witness how she will continue contributing to the game she holds so dear to her heart,” Moseki added.
“CSA would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Mignon for her undying commitment over the last 15 years and counting. Her displays on the field along with how she’s carried herself off it are indicative of why she’ll always be remembered as one of the modern pioneers of women’s cricket.
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