Shabnim Ismail Makes Stunning Return to South Africa's T20 World Cup Squad
Shabnim Ismail's Remarkable Comeback
Cape Town [South Africa], May 12: The announcement of Shabnim Ismail's retirement in 2023 marked what seemed to be the end of a remarkable fast-bowling journey for South Africa. However, nearly three years later, she is poised for a sensational return to international cricket, having been included in South Africa's squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
At 37, Ismail stands as South Africa's all-time leading wicket-taker in both ODIs and T20Is. She returns to the field with a mission to help the Proteas secure a long-awaited global title, following near misses in the 2023 and 2024 Women’s T20 World Cups and the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup.
The Proteas will commence their T20 World Cup journey against Australia on June 13 in Manchester.
Expressing her excitement, Ismail stated, “Words can hardly capture the feeling of donning the Protea badge again and representing my country, especially with millions watching. It’s a tremendous honor to play for this badge, and I’m thrilled to wear it once more,” as reported on the ICC website.
South Africa has officially announced their 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England and Wales, with Ismail's return being the highlight of the announcement. Her comeback adds significant experience and strength to the Proteas' bowling lineup, where she has taken 123 wickets in just 113 T20I matches.
Ismail revealed that her return was not initially planned, but discussions with close friends and encouragement from head coach Mandla Mashimbyi shifted her perspective. “He told me to take my time with the decision, emphasizing that he needed me back to help win the World Cup,” she shared.
Her motivation for returning is not about proving herself but rather about contributing to a larger goal. “I miss playing cricket at the highest level and representing South Africa. I want to help the team win the World Cup, which would be the ultimate achievement for me,” she remarked.
Despite her return, Ismail commended the evolving South African team, which has reached multiple finals and developed depth through players like Marizanne Kapp, Tumi Sekhukhune, and Ayabonga Khaka. “Honestly, I believe the team has been performing exceptionally well without me, but I’m eager to assist in winning the World Cup,” she added.
She also emphasized her role in mentoring younger players, encouraging them to embrace the opportunity of competing alongside elite teammates. “They should approach the game with the mindset of joining the best in the world to help us secure the World Cup,” she concluded.
South Africa squad: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Shabnim Ismail, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloe Tryon, Dane van Niekerk.