Du Preez replaces van Niekerk in Southern Vipers squad
Mignon du Preez was signed by the Southern Vipers after Dane van Niekerk was forced to withdraw from the Kia Super League due to injury
ESPNcricinfo staff
01-Aug-2017
Mignon du Preez was a crucial cog in South Africa's middle order during the Women's World Cup • International Cricket Council
South Africa batsman Mignon du Preez has replaced Dane van Niekerk in the Southern Vipers squad for the upcoming Kia Super League. Van Niekerk had earlier pulled out of the tournament with an injury after the conclusion of the Women's World Cup. India's Harmanpreet Kaur, who pulled out of the tournament because of a shoulder injury, will be replaced by South Africa opener Lizelle Lee for Surrey Stars.
Du Preez finished the World Cup as South Africa's third-highest run-scorer with 229 runs in seven games at an average of 57.25, including an unbeaten 76 in the semi-final against England.
"I consider ourselves fortunate in that we have found such a talented and experienced player to replace Dane van Niekerk," Bob Parks, Southern Vipers general manager, said. "She will certainly add value to our batting unit and comes with a high reputation as an excellent fielder."
The Vipers, though, will miss the all-round services of van Niekerk, who finished the Women's World Cup as the leading wicket-taker with 15 wickets at an average of 10. She also contributed with 99 runs in seven games.
The Southern Vipers open the tournament against Western Storm on August 10.