Nearly three years after stepping away from international cricket, South African fast-bowling legend Shabnim Ismail is making a dramatic return to the Proteas fold. The 37-year-old, who retired in 2023, has been named in South Africa’s 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England and Wales.
Ismail, South Africa’s all-time leading wicket-taker in both ODIs and T20Is, admitted that words fall short of describing the emotion of representing her country once more. “I don’t think words can actually describe what it feels like to wear the Protea badge again and play for your country, with millions watching you. It’s a huge honour, and I’m really happy to be wearing the badge again,” she said, as quoted by the ICC website.
The pace spearhead’s comeback comes after heartbreaking runner-up finishes in the 2023 and 2024 Women’s T20 World Cups, as well as the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup. South Africa will open their T20 World Cup campaign against Australia on June 13 in Manchester, and Ismail’s return adds depth and experience to the bowling attack.
Ismail revealed that reversing retirement was never in her plans, but conversations with close friends and head coach Mandla Mashimbyi changed her mind. “He said, ‘Take your time. I’m not forcing you, but I really need you to come back and help us win the World Cup.’ That message resonated with me,” she said, explaining that her motivation is not about proving a point but contributing to something bigger.
“I’m coming back because I miss playing cricket at the highest level, putting on the badge, and performing. I’m a hard worker. I never change. I just want to go out and do my thing, and most importantly, help win the World Cup for South Africa. That would be the cherry on top.”
Despite her own return, Ismail was quick to praise the current South African side, which has evolved into a formidable unit with players like Marizanne Kapp, Tumi Sekhukhune, and Ayabonga Khaka. “To be honest, I don’t think the team needs me. They’ve been phenomenal. But it’s nice to come back and help win the World Cup,” she added.
A key part of her role, Ismail noted, is mentoring the next generation. “Young players should go out there and say, ‘I’m playing with the best in the world. If I can’t beat them, let me join them and help us win the World Cup.'”
South Africa squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: 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, and Dane van Niekerk.