Star South African fast bowler Shabnim Ismail on Wednesday announced her retirement from international cricket with immediate effect. The veteran fast bowler said she plans to spend more time with her family but will continue to play franchise cricket.
The 34-year-old right-arm fast bowler is regarded as one of the best fast bowlers in women’s cricket. She ended her international career as the second-highest wicket-taker in ODI cricket and South Africa’s highest wicket-taker across all formats.
Shabnim Ismail said in her statement, “After proudly representing my country for 16 years, I have come to the difficult decision to retire from international cricket. Now I will move forward toward the next chapter of my life. Any athlete knows that being at your best takes compromise and dedication when training and competing. I now want to spend more time with my family, especially my siblings and parents, who are getting old.”
She further added, “When I look back at my international career, I am grateful for all the opportunities and experiences that have come my way. I have loved competing at the highest level and am proud to be part of a group of amazing players who paved the way for women’s cricket. The memories that are there will always be with me.”
Shabnim Ismail made her international debut in January 2007, and the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 was her last international match. The veteran fast bowler played only one Test in 2007, taking three wickets. She also took 191 wickets in 127 ODIs and 123 wickets in 113 T20 Internationals. Shabnim Ismail holds the record for taking the most 43 wickets in T20 World Cup. She has bowled a record 21 maiden overs in T20 Internationals.
