South Africa Women have named their squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, with one headline change catching everyone’s eye: fast bowler Shabnim Ismail is back after stepping away from international cricket earlier. The experienced pacer will return for the tournament in England and Wales, adding a proven wicket-taking option to the Proteas’ attack.
Ismail, regarded as one of South Africa’s standout quicks, has 123 wickets in T20 internationals. The 37-year-old last appeared at the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup, where South Africa reached the final before falling to Australia. Her return gives the side added depth and match awareness, especially in high-pressure World Cup games.
Quick facts
- South Africa Women have announced their squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
- Shabnim Ismail is returning to international cricket for the tournament in England and Wales.
- Ismail has taken 123 wickets in T20 internationals.
- Laura Wolvaardt will captain South Africa for a second consecutive T20 World Cup.
- South Africa begin their campaign against Australia on June 13 in Manchester.
Laura Wolvaardt will lead the Proteas for the second straight T20 World Cup. South Africa will be chasing an elusive first ICC title, having finished runners-up in both of the previous two editions and coming close without lifting the trophy.
Wolvaardt’s batting group includes Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus and former captain Dane van Niekerk. The leadership and experience in the top order will be supported by a versatile mix of all-round skill and power hitting across the middle overs.
Marizanne Kapp and Annerie Dercksen are also part of the squad, bringing additional balance to the team’s lineup. Kayla Reyneke, meanwhile, has received her first senior ICC tournament call-up, marking a major step in her career as she joins a World Cup environment.
On the bowling front, South Africa look set to rely on a combination of pace and spin. Alongside Ismail, Ayabonga Khaka is expected to play a key role, while Nonkululeko Mlaba provides the spin option to control the run flow and create breakthroughs.
South Africa’s World Cup journey gets underway against Australia Women on June 13 in Manchester. It’s a tough opening assignment, but the squad’s mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talent sets up an intriguing start to their tournament.
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, Chloe Tryon, Dane van Nierkerk.
