The 37-year-old has been named in the South Africa women’s squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales, and her inclusion will undoubtedly add serious firepower to the side.

Ismail’s last appearance for South Africa came in the final of the Women’s T20 World Cup, when the Proteas went down by 19 runs to Australia at Newlands in Cape Town.

Since then, Ismail has continued to ply her trade domestically for the Lions in Johannesburg, while also featuring in some of the biggest franchise leagues around the world.

There were no other major surprises in the delayed squad announcement, although big-hitting Klerksdorp-born batter Tazmin Brits got the nod ahead of Anneke Bosch despite enduring a lean run with the bat in 2026.

Proteas coach Mandla Mashimbyi told OFM Sport that he is thrilled to have Ismail’s energy and experience back in the side.

“When we look at our team and obviously the T20 World Cup, we felt that we needed that X-factor, and she definitely carries that, said ”Mashimbyi.

“She’s a strong character, a fighter, good in the field, and experienced.”

Shabnim Ismail after dismissing her national captain, Laura Wolvaardt, in The Hundred. Photo: Cricinfo

“Everything looks good in terms of what she brings to the team. And it’s not even just about skill – it’s also the other things she brings outside of that.

“This is probably the addition we needed in our team to make sure we are going to fight all the way.”

The fiery fast bowler, in turn, said she is thrilled to be back in Proteas colours, although she admitted it was not a decision she took lightly.

“Obviously, I’ve played for South Africa since 2007, and I don’t think words can describe what it feels like to wear the Protea badge again and represent your country, with millions of people watching – friends, family, everyone,” said Ismail.

“It’s a huge honour for me playing for the badge and for all the support staff, family, friends, and everyone involved. I’m really happy to be wearing the badge again.

“It was obviously a hard and long decision. I always say I have morals and values, and I think a lot of people know that once I’m done, I’m done. But I had really good conversations with family – especially my sister, people like Trish who are very close to my heart – and with Coach Mandla as well. He’s been messaging me a lot.”

Shabnim Ismail against Pakistan during the 2022 Women’s Cricket World Cup in New Zealand. Photo: Cricinfo

“When the news came out about him just waiting for that one phone call from Shabnim Ismail, I think that topped it off. We had very positive conversations.

“I never thought I’d come back, but I realised I missed playing cricket – especially at the highest level against the best in the world.

“I still believe I can come back and execute my skills. I am still a hard worker, and I haven’t changed. I just want to go out there, do my thing, and hopefully help South Africa win the World Cup. That would be the cherry on top.”

The Proteas will open their World Cup campaign on 13 June against Australia at Old Trafford in Manchester.

Proteas Women T20 World Cup squad – Laura Wolvaardt (captain), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Shabnim Ismail, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Suné Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloé Tryon and Dané van Niekerk

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg