Shabnim Ismail excited for international rebirth

The 37-year-old was named in the Proteas Women’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in England next month, marking her return to the team for the first time in three years. 

"I don't think words can describe what it means to wear the Proteas badge again and represent the millions of people watching you. It's a huge honour for me to be representing my country again."

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Ismail says it was a decision she had to think long and hard about, and had to consult those in her closest circle to reach this point. She admitted that while she took time to accept coach Mandla Mashimbyi’s offer to come back, she did miss playing the game at the highest level.

"I had nice conversations with family, with my sister and the people really close to my heart, and obviously with coach Mandla as well. I never thought I would come back and play, but I really missed playing cricket in general."

South Africa’s record wicket taker in T20 internationals made it clear that her goal is to win the World Cup with the team, something she came agonisingly close to doing in her last match in 2023, when they lost the final to Australia in Cape Town. 

The veteran added that she has been keeping tabs with the team during her time away, and says the bowling unit have done well in her absence. She pointed to some of the younger players that have impressed her the most.

"To be honest I don't think the team needs me, they've been playing some phenomenal cricket. In saying that, it's nice for me to be able to come back and help win the World Cup.

"I missed playing with the same faces again like Marizanne Kapp, I know there's youngsters coming through the pipeline, there's Hlubi, and Ayabonga Khaka has been doing well, Tumi Sekhukhune has been opening the bowling so I'm a bit worried about that because she just might be taking my spot. Overall, I'm just happy to be back."