Shabnim Ismail Shocks Everyone With Comeback for T20 World Cup 2026

South Africa have announced their 15-member squad for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England and Wales. The biggest surprise is the return of fast bowler Shabnim Ismail, who came out of retirement to play in the tournament.

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

Ismail is South Africa’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is. She has taken 123 wickets in 113 matches. The 37-year-old last played in the 2023 T20 World Cup final, where South Africa lost to Australia on home ground.

Laura Wolvaardt will continue as captain. She is currently ranked third in the ICC Women’s T20I batting rankings.

Marizanne Kapp is also back after missing the series against New Zealand and India due to injury. Head coach Mandla Mashimbyi said, “If you don’t eat food for a long time, you get hungry. That’s where she is. Medically it’s all a green light, and she’s fit and raring to go.”

Speaking about Ismail’s return, the coach added, “Looking at the ODI World Cup last year, we felt we needed that X-factor. And she definitely carries that. She’s a fighter.”

The squad also includes young Kayla Reyneke, the former South Africa U19 captain. This will be her first senior ICC tournament.

South Africa have finished as runners-up in the last two T20 World Cups. They will be hoping to go one step better this time.

Full South Africa Squad for 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, Dane van Niekerk.

South Africa started their campaign against Australia on June 13 in Manchester.

                                               

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