Image: BBC
Shabnim Ismail may have spent three years away from international cricket, but the legendary fast bowler insists her passion and hunger to represent South Africa remain as strong as ever.
The 37-year-old’s long-awaited return to the Proteas Women setup was officially confirmed on Tuesday after she was named in South Africa’s 15-player squad for next month’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales.
Ismail has not featured for the Proteas since the heartbreaking T20 World Cup final defeat to Australia at Newlands in 2023, but according to coach Mandla Mashimbyi, bringing one of the world’s premier fast bowlers back into the fold was an easy decision.
“When we looked at our squad and what we needed for this World Cup, we felt we needed that X-factor, and Shabnim definitely brings that,” Mashimbyi said.
“She’s a fighter, a strong character and still one of the best bowlers in the world. It was honestly a no-brainer to try and get her playing for South Africa again.”
Despite stepping away from international cricket, Ismail has remained active on the global T20 franchise circuit and continues to be regarded as one of the most feared pace bowlers in women’s cricket.
The veteran seamer, who has represented South Africa in 241 matches across all formats and claimed 317 international wickets since debuting in 2007, said the decision to return was emotional and carefully considered.
“It was a long and difficult decision,” Ismail admitted.
“People know that when I’m done, I’m usually done. But I had good conversations with family, with people close to me like Trisha Chetty, and also with coach Mandla.”
Ismail revealed that Mashimbyi’s public comments earlier this year — where he said he was waiting for one phone call from her — played a major role in changing her mind.
“When I heard him say he was waiting for my call, that probably topped it off for me,” she said.
“We had really positive conversations and that helped a lot.”
While Ismail downplayed suggestions that she alone could transform the Proteas’ fortunes, she made it clear her goal is to help South Africa finally win a major ICC trophy.
“I’m not saying I’m going to be the magic solution,” she said.
“But I want to make a difference and help South Africa win the World Cup. That’s the dream.”
South Africa’s women have endured heartbreak in recent years after reaching three successive ICC finals — including back-to-back T20 World Cup finals and last year’s ODI World Cup final — without lifting a trophy.
Mashimbyi believes Ismail’s return could provide the edge and experience the Proteas have been missing in crunch moments.
“When I got the job, one of the first things I wanted to understand was why Shabnim wasn’t part of the team,” Mashimbyi explained.
“I told her that whenever she was ready, she could call me. Over the last month or so, the discussions became more positive and eventually she decided to come back.”
The coach said Ismail’s qualities perfectly addressed areas where the Proteas needed strengthening.
“You don’t leave a player of her calibre sitting at home while we’re trying to compete for a World Cup,” he said.
“She fits exactly what this team needs and I genuinely believe we are a stronger team with her in the squad.”
The Proteas squad also includes experienced all-rounders Marizanne Kapp and Dane van Niekerk, while Laura Wolvaardt will captain the side at the tournament.
Source: www.iol.co.za
