South Africa have made one of the biggest selection calls ahead of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 after bringing veteran fast bowler Shabnim Ismail out of international retirement for the tournament in England and Wales.
The 37-year-old, who retired from international cricket in 2023 following the T20 World Cup final in Cape Town, has been named in Laura Wolvaardt's 15-member squad as the Proteas chase their maiden ICC title.
Ismail returns with enormous experience, having already played 113 T20Is and claimed a South African record 123 wickets in the format.
Her comeback headlines a squad that also welcomes back experienced stars Marizanne Kapp and Dane van Niekerk after injury and illness layoffs.
Shabnim Ismail return gives South Africa major boost
Despite retiring from international cricket
three years ago, Ismail remained active in franchise leagues around the world, continuing to feature in tournaments like the Women's Premier League, Women's Big Bash League and The Hundred.
The veteran pacer is still regarded as one of the fastest bowlers in women's cricket and now reunites with long-time new-ball partner Marizanne Kapp ahead of the World Cup.
South Africa head coach Mandla Mashimbyi admitted Ismail's return could have a major impact on the squad.
"Having someone like Shabnim back adds a lot of value to the group. We had good conversations and you could see the hunger she still has to represent South Africa and help this team achieve something special," Mashimbyi said.
"We're also pleased to have players like Marizanne, Dane and Karabo available again. "
Dane van Niekerk and Marizanne Kapp also return
Former captain Dane van Niekerk continues her own comeback journey after reversing her retirement last year.
The experienced all-rounder has already featured in nine internationals since returning and now finds herself back in another major ICC tournament squad.
Marizanne Kapp, meanwhile, returns after recovering from illness and is expected to remain one of South Africa's most important all-rounders during the tournament.
Wicketkeeper-batter Karabo Meso also rejoins the squad after recovering from the wrist injury that ruled her out of the recent India series.
Kayla Reyneke earns first senior World Cup call-up
Among the fresh faces, Kayla Reyneke received her maiden senior World Cup selection after a breakthrough international season.
The former South Africa Under-19 captain impressed throughout 2025-26, averaging 53 with the bat while also taking five wickets in her first nine T20 internationals.
Her rise has been one of the major positives for South African women's cricket over the past year, with selectors rewarding her consistency ahead of the global event.
South Africa chasing first ICC trophy after multiple final appearances
South Africa head into the tournament carrying the frustration of repeated near-misses at ICC events.
The Proteas have reached the finals of the last three ICC tournaments but are still searching for their first global title.
Mashimbyi said the team's recent 4-1 series victory over India had given the squad confidence ahead of the World Cup.
"We're excited for the big show ahead, and I think the players have really put in the work over the last few months. The 4-1 series win against India gave us a lot of confidence, but there are still final touch-ups we need to make before the World Cup starts," he said.
"Every team goes to a World Cup wanting to win it, and we are no different, but for us it's about staying in love with the process, taking it one game at a time and continuing to improve as the tournament advances. "
South Africa Women's T20 World Cup 2026 squad
Laura Wolvaardt (captain), 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 open their Women's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Australia in Manchester on June 13 and are grouped alongside India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the Netherlands.
