Mignon du Preez announces retirement from longer formats

Mignon du Preez, the former South African Women's skipper, has decided to retire from ODIs and Tests to shift her focus solely on T20 cricket. She believes it is the right time to call it a day in ODI and Test cricket. 

Mignon has represented South Africa women's side in four ICC ODI World Cups to date and has been one of their best servants over the years. 

The South African batter wants to prioritise her time with family and wants to start a family of her own soon.

In a statement issued by Cricket South Africa, the former skipper says, "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." 

The 32-year-old has featured in over 150 ODIs and has also dawned the white jersey once. She might no longer feature in the longer formats, but her presence in the game's shortest form will help CSA. Her decision to retire came on the back of the recently concluded ODI World Cup in New Zealand.

Preez went on to add, "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." 

Cricket South Africa (CSA) Chief Executive Officer Pholetsi Moseki thanked Du Preez for her excellent service to Women's cricket in South Africa. He hopes that the legendary South African batter continues to contribute to the game even after she retires from all forms of the game.

Cricket South Africa's CEO added, "Mignon is a champion of women's cricket in South Africa and the world. A true example for any young girl who wants to take up the sport; is that anything is possible through dedication, determination, and ever-lasting inquisitiveness to your craft while maintaining kindness and humility."

"Although her departure saddens CSA 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," he concluded.