Ismail returns to Proteas fold for T20 World Cup

May 12, 2026 8

The Proteas Women have confirmed their 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England and Wales.

The biggest talking point from the squad announcement is the return of ace pacer, Shabnim Ismail, who has reversed her retirement to make herself available for the marquee tournament.

Ismail brings experience and depth to the Proteas pace attack and remains South Africa’s leading wicket-taker in ODIs and T20Is, with 123 wickets from just 113 games in the latter.

The 37-year-old last featured in the 2023 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup on home soil, where South Africa lost to Australia in the final in Cape Town.

The in-form Laura Wolvaardt, currently ranked third in the ICC Women’s T20I Batter Rankings, will lead South Africa for the second consecutive World Cup.

Speaking on Ismail’s return, head coach Mandla Mashimbyi, said her inclusion would add a crucial “X-factor” to the squad.

“Looking at the ODI World Cup last year (of which South Africa were the runner-ups), we felt we needed that X-factor. And she definitely carries that. She’s a fighter. Good on the field,” he said.

“And not talking about skills only, the thing she brings out of that skill. This addition will make sure that we’ll fight all the way.”

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.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT 🚨

The South African Women’s National Selection Panel has today confirmed the 15-player squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to take place in England and Wales from 12 June – 05 July.

Aiming to continue inspiring the future… pic.twitter.com/ec8m2f7vT5

— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) May 12, 2026