The squad for the global showpiece was due to be announced on Monday morning at 11:00. However, less than ten minutes before the briefing was set to begin, CSA confirmed the announcement had been delayed.

In a brief statement, the organisation said the postponement was “due to a need for further internal reviews”, adding a new date for the squad announcement would be communicated in due course.

Shabnim Ismail. Photo: Cricinfo

While CSA have remained tight-lipped about the reasons behind the delay, there is growing speculation that a major surprise could be on the cards – with former Proteas Women speedster Shabnim Ismail reportedly set for a sensational return to international cricket.

Widely regarded as South Africa’s greatest women’s fast bowler, Ismail has not featured for the Proteas since the heartbreaking 2023 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final at Newlands in Cape Town, where Australia claimed a 19-run victory over the hosts.

Marizanne Kapp. Photo: Morgan Piek

Despite stepping away from the international arena, the fiery quick has remained active on the domestic and franchise circuits. She has continued to represent the Lions locally, while also starring in leagues around the world, where her pace and aggression have made her one of the most feared bowlers in the women’s game.

Earlier this year, Proteas Women head coach Mandla Mashimbyi revealed he had already approached Ismail in 2025 about reconsidering her international retirement. It now appears that Mashimbyi, together with CSA’s director of cricket Enoch Nkwe, may have succeeded in convincing the veteran seamer to return ahead of the World Cup.

Mandla Mashimbyi. Photo: Morgan Piek

Meanwhile, influential all-rounder Marizanne Kapp is reportedly fit and ready for the tournament after illness disrupted much of the recent home series against Pakistan, as well as the tour to New Zealand.

There is also expected to be a return for her wife, Dané van Niekerk, despite injury setbacks that limited her involvement during the New Zealand tour. Van Niekerk’s last international appearance came in the third T20 International against Pakistan in Benoni, where she was dismissed for a duck.

Tazmin Brits. Photo: Morgan Piek

Selection discussions are also believed to centre around experienced opener Tazmin Brits and versatile all-rounder Anneke Bosch. Brits have endured a lean run with the bat in recent months, while Bosch has impressed since returning from an extended absence from international cricket, offering additional value with both bat and ball.

South Africa’s Women’s T20 World Cup campaign is scheduled to begin on 13 June against Australia at the iconic Old Trafford in Manchester – a blockbuster opening clash that could set the tone for the Proteas’ tournament ambitions.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg