South Africa names 2026 Women's T20 WC squad

South Africa has named a 15-player squad for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, set for England and Wales from June 12 to July 5, with veteran fast bowler Shabnim Ismail making a surprise return from international retirement.

Captain Laura Wolvaardt will lead the Proteas for the second consecutive tournament. The squad blends experience and youth, highlighted by Ismail's inclusion after she stepped away following South Africa's runner-up finish in the 2023 home World Cup. At 37, Ismail holds South Africa's T20I records with 123 wickets in 113 matches at an average of 18.62. Her pace and aggression will bolster a seam attack alongside Marizanne Kapp and Ayabonga Khaka.

Several players return from injuries or breaks. Kapp rejoins after illness sidelined her from recent series against New Zealand and India. Allrounder Dane van Niekerk, who reversed her retirement last year, recovers from a calf injury to provide middle-order batting and spin options. Wicketkeeper-batter Karabo Meso also returns after a wrist issue kept her out of the India series.

Promising allrounder Kayla Reyneke earns her first senior World Cup call-up at age 20. The former South Africa Under-19 captain...