South Africa News – Mignon du Preez to retire from international cricket

However, Du Preez, 33, is still available for T20 franchises. She is currently contracted to Trent Rockets in the Women’s Hundred and Hobart Hurricanes in the WBBL.

“Fifteen years of international cricket, wow, what a blessing it’s been,” du Preez said in a retirement announcement shared by Cricket South Africa. “It is never an easy decision to retire from something you love as much as I love cricket, but I know in my heart that the time is right for me to announce my retirement from all forms of international cricket.

“However, I will continue to play the shorter form of the game in the global leagues until I am blessed to become a mother and start a family of my own…

“I will definitely miss the locker room conversations, the off-field friendships from around the world, traveling and learning about different cultures. However, I am very excited about the next phase of my life with those I love dearly and have taken a back seat over the last 15 years of my career.”

He started as full-time captain in 2011 and led the team for five years before stepping down to focus on his batting. In all, he led South Africa in 46 ODIs, 50 T20Is and the only Test the team has played since his debut.

“This is a bittersweet moment for South African cricket and the world as we bid farewell to one of the game’s most popular figures on the international stage,” CSA Director of Cricket Enoch Nkwe said.

“Over the past 16 years, du Preez’s professionalism and commitment to his country has been exemplary… His dedicated, passionate team personality will be sorely missed and I wish him all the best for the rest of his career and life after the Games.”