New Delhi: The South African women’s national cricket team has announced their squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 and the biggest surprise is the return of the fast bowler. Shabnam Ismail.The veteran fast bowler had earlier retired from international cricket but has now decided to make a comeback for the tournament in England and Wales. Ismail, one of South Africa’s premier fast bowlers, has taken 123 wickets in T20 Internationals and brings vast experience to the squad.
The 37-year-old last played during the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup, where South Africa reached the final but lost to Australia.Star batsman Laura Woolward will captain South Africa for the second consecutive T20 World Cup. The team will once again aim to win their maiden ICC title after finishing as runners-up in the previous two editions.Wollwardt will lead a strong batting unit that includes Tazmin Burts, Sun Luis and former captain Dan van Niekerk.All-rounders Marizanne Kapp and Henri Derrickson are also part of the squad, while young player Kayla Reineke has earned her first senior ICC tournament selection.South Africa’s bowling attack looks strong with Ismail, Ayabunga Khaka and spinner Nonkoliko Malaba expected to play a key role.The Proteas will begin their World Cup campaign against the Australian Women’s National Cricket Team in Manchester on June 13.South Africa Team: Laura Wollwardt (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, Chyla Reyneke
