SA's Ismail reverses retirement for T20 World Cup

SA's Ismail reverses retirement for T20 World CupImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Shabnim Ismail has taken 123 wickets at an average of 18.62ByMarc HigginsonBBC Sport Senior JournalistPublished4 minutes agoSouth Africa fast bowler Shabnim Ismail has reversed her international retirement and is included in the Proteas' squad for this summer's T20 World Cup in England.Ismail, 37, is one of the fastest bowlers in women's cricket and is her country's all-time top wicket-taker in the format despite making her last appearance more than three years ago.She is joined in the squad by fellow opening bowler Marizanne Kapp, who has recovered from illness, while Dane van Niekerk, who has also come out of retirement in the past year, is included following a calf injury.South Africa, who were runners-up at the past two Women's T20 World Cups, open their campaign against Australia on 13 June before facing Pakistan, India, the Netherlands and Bangladesh.They recently enjoyed a 4-1 series win against ODI world champions India."Having someone like Shabnim back adds a lot of value to the group," said head coach Mandla Mashimbyi."We had good conversations and you could see the hunger she still has to represent South Africa and help this team achieve something special."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.Related topicsSouth AfricaCricketMore on this storyWong to have scan amid concerns before World CupPublished18 hours agoWomen's T20 World Cup 2026 squads Published9 minutes agoGet cricket news sent straight to your phonePublished16 August 2025