The 34-year-old dynamic middle-order batter joined the Heat as a direct nomination for this WBBL season, after previously scoring 2292 tournament runs for the Hobart Hurricanes and Melbourne Stars in six seasons at a strike rate of 114.

She retired from international cricket last year after 15 years at the top, including a long stint as South African skipper.

"I have played against the Harris sisters [Grace and Laura] and they have smacked the ball all over the place," du Preez told AAP after flying into Brisbane on Wednesday.

"I've been on the receiving end of that, so it will be nice to be in their team for a change and not playing against them. The Heat have been in the top four teams nearly every competition I have played in the Big Bash and I have always admired them.

"They looked like a bunch of girls that enjoy each other's company on and off the field...and teal is my favourite colour."

Du Preez has been named in the Heat's squad of 14 to play three away games to start the competition, beginning with the clash against the Melbourne Renegades on Friday.

While not playing for South Africa anymore, she has still featured in plenty of cricket in other leagues around the world. She intends to play for the Heat with the aggressive approach that has been her trademark.

"I have been playing cricket since I was four years old and it is probably the only thing I know," du Preez said. "It was one of the hardest decisions to step away from international cricket, but once you know the time is right, you just know.

"I know it is close to the end of my career, and I intend to have as much fun as possible with the Heat. I played in the CPL and the FairBreak Invitational tournament earlier this year.

"Recently in South Africa our domestic structure got professionalised and I am contracted there and played over the weekend."

Her new team-mates are excited about what du Preez has to offer.

"I am so stoked. I've been sending her some sly messages to try and get her over for a few years," Redmayne told AAP. "Mignon is a super player and a super teammate to have around the group as well. She is probably the leading run-scorer against the Heat, so it is nice to have her on our side."