Former South Africa fast bowler Shabnim Ismail has reversed her retirement and is set for a surprise return to international cricket after being named in the squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England and Wales.
The 37-year-old had retired from international cricket in 2023 but will now make her comeback for the global event, strengthening South Africa’s pace attack with her vast experience and express speed.
Ismail’s return will see her reunite with long-time new-ball partner Marizanne Kapp, who has also been included after recovering from illness.
Former captain Dane van Niekerk retained her place in the squad as well after returning from retirement last year and featuring in nine internationals since her comeback.
South Africa will be captained by Laura Wolvaardt, while experienced players including Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Chloe Tryon and Ayabonga Khaka were also named in the squad.
There was also a maiden Women’s T20 World Cup call-up for young batter Kayla Reyneke, the former South Africa Under-19 captain known for her aggressive batting approach.
Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Karabo Meso returned to the national side after recovering from a wrist injury. Meso was previously part of the Under-19 team led by Reyneke that reached the final in 2025.
Head coach Mandla Mashimbyi welcomed Ismail’s comeback and said her presence would add valuable experience to the squad.
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“Having someone like Shabnim back adds a lot of value to the group,” Mashimbyi said in a Cricket South Africa release.
“We had good conversations, and you could see the hunger she still has to represent South Africa and help this team achieve something special. We’re also pleased to have players like Marizanne, Dane and Karabo available again.”
Despite retiring from international cricket, Ismail remained active on the franchise circuit and continued to feature in tournaments such as the Women’s Premier League, Women’s Big Bash League and The Hundred.
Mashimbyi added that South Africa remain focused on their process despite entering the tournament with title ambitions.
“Every team goes to a World Cup wanting to win it, and we are no different,” he said. “But for us it’s about staying in love with the process, taking it one game at a time and continuing to improve as the tournament advances.”
South Africa women’s convenor of selectors Clinton du Preez also stressed the importance of continuity while explaining the squad selection.
“Keeping the core of the group together was important to us because this is a squad that has built strong experience, combinations and understanding over time,” he said.
Notably, batter Anneke Bosch, who played a major role in South Africa’s run to the previous Women’s T20 World Cup final, was left out of the squad.
South Africa Women’s T20 World Cup squad
Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Shabnim Ismail, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso (wk), Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloé Tryon and Dane van Niekerk.
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