Mignon Du Preez talking cricket and her faith
A big thank you to the South African Women's cricket captain Mignon Du Preez for taking time out to answer a few questions on her faith and her cricket.
What cricket bat do you currently use?I am extremely excited to announce that I recently signed with Norfolk Cricket Bat Company and I will have my own Minx22 range (Minx is my nickname and 22 is the number on my SA shirt)
What has the best bit of advice you have been given?"Being a Christian athlete doesn't mean praying for your team to win. God doesn't give an edge to those who pray, over those who don't; hard work does that. Being a Christian athlete means competing for Christ, in a way in which you always give your all for Him, & win or lose, you thank Him for the ability & opportunity to play. It means giving all the glory to God, no matter the outcome, because you trust in His plan for your life."
The best ground you have played on?Locally it is between Wanderers and Newlands. I scored my debut 100 for South Africa on Wanderers and Newlands has the most amazing view.
Internationally, Fort Galle in Srilanka. (The Cricket ground is based at an amazing heritage site with lost of history all around). How does your faith influence you on the pitch?It provides me with a clearer perspective of the situation. Winning or losing is not what matters most, but the way one carry themselves on and off the field. Whenever I get into a difficult situation, I know that 'all things are possible with God' and that relaxes me and helps me to stay focused on the task at hand, knowing that God is in control of the situation.
And finally what is your favorite bible verse?Jer 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." |
How did you get started playing Cricket?I started by accident at the age of 4. My dad was coaching my brother's u/7 mini cricket team, and as a proud supporter I always went to watch their games. At one of the games their team needed another player and I was asked to fill the spot. At the end of the day I was the 'best batter' for the day and that is where my love started for the game.
When did you come to faith?I was brought up in a Christian home but I dedicated my life to Jesus at a youth seminar at the age of 10. Time you faith has mattered the most?During an armed robbery at a supermarket, I was held at gun-point but God kept His protective hand over me and I walked away unharmed and never experienced any after effects such as fear or nightmares.
Is it easy being a christian in sport?I was very fortunate that the sports where I have been involved in never placed any limitation on my Christianity. So for me personally it was easy to be a Christian in sport.
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