Shabnim Ismail Comes Out of Retirement for South Africa’s T20 World Cup Campaign

Shabnim Ismail is set to make a sensational return to international cricket after being named in South Africa women's national cricket team’s squad for the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup.

The 37-year-old fast bowler, who retired from international cricket in 2023, will reunite with longtime pace partner Marizanne Kapp, who returns after recovering from illness. Former captain Dane van Niekerk, who reversed her own retirement last year, has also been included in the squad after making a successful comeback to international cricket.

South Africa will once again be led by captain Laura Wolvaardt, with experienced players such as Tazmin Brits, Suné Luus, Chloé Tryon and Ayabonga Khaka also retaining their places.

Young allrounder Kayla Reyneke has earned her maiden senior World Cup call-up after impressing in youth cricket, while wicketkeeper-batter Karabo Meso returns to the squad following recovery from a wrist injury. Both players were part of the South African Under-19 team that reached the 2025 final under Reyneke’s leadership.

South Africa will open their T20 World Cup campaign against Australia women's national cricket team in Manchester on June 13.

Head coach Mandla Mashimbyi welcomed Ismail’s return, saying her experience and competitiveness would significantly strengthen the squad. He also expressed satisfaction at having experienced players like Kapp, van Niekerk and Meso available again for a major tournament.

Since stepping away from international cricket, Ismail has remained active on the franchise circuit. She played a crucial role in Mumbai Indians Women’s WPL title-winning campaign in 2025 and has featured extensively in competitions such as the WBBL, WCPL and The Hundred. Overall, she has played 92 T20 matches since retiring from the international game.

South Africa women’s convenor of selectors Clinton du Preez explained that maintaining the core of the squad was a key priority while also adding experienced match-winners capable of performing in high-pressure situations.

One notable omission from the squad is Anneke Bosch, who played a major role in helping South Africa reach the final of the previous Women’s T20 World Cup.

South Africa Women’s T20 World Cup Squad:

Laura Wolvaardt (captain), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Shabnim Ismail, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Suné Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloé Tryon and Dané van Niekerk.