Veteran fast bowler Shabnim Ismail has been included in South Africa women’s squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England and Wales, marking her return to international cricket nearly three years after retirement.
The 37-year-old seamer returns with extensive experience, having played 113 T20 Internationals and taken a record 123 wickets for South Africa in the format.
The squad will once again be led by captain Laura Wolvaardt.
South Africa have also welcomed back experienced all-rounders Marizanne Kapp and Dane van Niekerk following injury layoffs.
Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Karabo Meso has recovered from the wrist injury that forced her to miss the recent series against India women’s national cricket team.
Young all-rounder Kayla Reyneke earned her maiden senior World Cup call-up after an impressive start to her international career. She averaged 53 with the bat and claimed five wickets in her first nine T20I appearances.
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
