South Africa pacer Shabnim Ismail, also known for her fierce speed announced her retirement from international cricket on Wednesday (May 3). The 34-year-old pacer also put an end to her 16-year-long career after officiating the development. She last played for South Africa in international cricket during the T20 World Cup tournament held in February this year.
However, the pacer confirmed that she would continue to play in T20 Leagues across the globe. That means she would continue to play in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), Women’s Premier League (WPL), Fairbreak Tournament, and The Hundred.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) had earlier included Ismail in the national contract for the 2023/24 season. However, Ismail refused to accept the contract before announcing her retirement. Cricket South Africa (CSA) issued a statement confirming Ismail’s announcement because she wanted to spend more time with family, particularly her parents and siblings.
“After 16 years proudly representing my country, I have come to the difficult decision to retire from international cricket and move on to the next chapter of my life,” Shabnim stated.
Shabnim Ismail Debut
The 34-year-old also thanked CSA and fans for their support throughout her entire career since her debut in 2007. The pacer made her debut against Pakistan in an ODI game in Pretoria on January 20, 2007. Since then, she has taken 191 wickets in 127 matches with an impressive economy rate of 3.70 and best figures of 6/10 against the Netherlands in 2011.
“I want to thank Cricket South Africa, my teammates, coaches, and medical support staff for all their input and support over the years. What a journey it has been, and one that would not have been as meaningful if you had not been a part of it.
“To my fans – thank you for your unwavering support and encouragement. Your messages and cheers have lifted me up and kept me going when times were tough. I truly appreciate every one of you”, she added.
Ismail pulled the curtains to her career finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker in ODI only behind India’s Jhulan Goswami (255 wickets), who retired from all forms of cricket in September 2022. Besides, she has also clocked the fastest deliveries in women’s cricket including clocking 128kph.
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