Shabnim Ismail in the WBBL (Photo by Mike Owen/Getty Images) NEW DELHI: The South African women’s national cricket team has announced its squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 and the biggest surprise is the return of fast bowler Shabnim Ismail.The veteran pacer had previously retired from international cricket, but has now decided to make a comeback for the England and Wales tournament. One of South Africa’s greatest fast bowlers, Ismail has taken 123 wickets in T20 Internationals and brings a lot of experience to the team.
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Delhi Capitals’ Madhav Tiwari reflects on his brilliant all-round performanceThe 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 Wolvaardt will captain South Africa for the second consecutive T20 World Cup. The team will once again be aiming to win their first ICC title after finishing runners-up in the previous two editions.Wolvaardt will lead a strong batting unit consisting of Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus and former captain Dane van Niekerk.The squad also includes all-rounders Marizanne Kapp and Annerie Dercksen, while young player Kayla Reyneke won her first senior ICC tournament.The South African bowling attack looks strong, with Ismail, Ayabonga Khaka and spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba expected to play key roles.The Proteas will open their World Cup campaign against the Australian women’s national cricket team on June 13 in Manchester.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, Dan Chloe. Nick Tryon
