Shabnim Ismail Sets T20 World Cup Record with 50 Wickets

Shabnim Ismail Achieves Historic Milestone

In a remarkable achievement, South African fast bowler Shabnim Ismail has made history by becoming the first player to take 50 wickets in the Women's T20 World Cup during the semifinal match against England at The Oval on Thursday.

Ismail reached this milestone in her 38th appearance in the Women's T20 World Cup, claiming her landmark 50th wicket with her very first delivery of the match, dismissing England's opener Amy Jones.

The 37-year-old from Cape Town entered the semifinal needing just one wicket to achieve this historic feat and quickly accomplished it. She further solidified her lead as the top wicket-taker in Women's T20 World Cup history by adding another wicket later in the game, bringing her total to 51.

Top Wicket-Takers in Women's T20 World Cup

Ismail now leads the all-time wicket-takers list, comfortably ahead of Australia's Megan Schutt, who has 48 wickets.

Following them are Australia's Ellyse Perry with 44 wickets, England's Anya Shrubsole with 41, and South Africa's Marizanne Kapp with 39 wickets.

England Secures Final Spot

In the same match, England secured their place in the final of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 with a decisive 40-run victory over South Africa.

Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt led her team with an impressive all-round performance, helping them recover from an early batting collapse and delivering a strong bowling display.

England remains unbeaten in the tournament and is now just one win away from maintaining their perfect record of never losing a Women's World Cup, whether T20 or ODI, when hosting the event.