South Africa has named its squad for the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup, with the standout inclusion being the return of fast bowler Shabnim Ismail from retirement.
The squad was announced on 12 May. Ismail, 37, had retired after the 2023 T20 World Cup final against Australia in Cape Town. She finished her international career with 317 wickets in 241 matches, including a national record 123 wickets in 113 T20Is.
Head coach Mandla Mashimbyi said the decision to bring her back was straightforward. “It was a no-brainer, to be honest, to try to get one of the best bowlers in the world playing for SA again,” he said. The team opens its campaign against Australia on 13 June in England and Wales.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt leads a group that mixes experience and youth. Marizanne Kapp and Dané van Niekerk return after injury recoveries, while all-rounder Kayla Reyneke earns her first World Cup call-up. The side has reached three consecutive major finals since 2023 but is yet to win a trophy.
Fielding remains a key focus area, according to Wolvaardt. “As a group, we need to keep being brave with our fielding,” she said. Ismail added that overcoming the mental barrier in finals will be crucial for success.