London: South Africa’s experienced fast bowler Shabnim Ismail created history in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi final against England at The Oval on Thursday, becoming the first woman bowler to complete 50 wickets in the history of the tournament.
The 37 year old pacer achieved the milestone in her 38th World Cup match. She had entered the contest with 49 wickets and needed just one more to reach the landmark. Ismail did not have to wait long, as she struck with her very first delivery of the match.
England opener Amy Jones edged Ismail’s opening ball and the catch was taken safely by Annerie Dercksen. With that wicket, Ismail became the first bowler in Women’s T20 World Cup history to reach the 50 wicket mark. She added another wicket in her next over, reducing England to 23 for 3 and giving South Africa a strong start. At the end of the first six overs, England were struggling at 35 for 3.
Ismail has been one of South Africa’s most reliable performers for several years and has led the team’s pace attack with consistency. Known for her pace, accuracy and ability to strike with the new ball, she has built a reputation as one of the most dangerous fast bowlers in women’s cricket. Across formats, she has taken 191 wickets in 127 ODIs, 131 wickets in 119 T20 Internationals and 3 wickets in one Test match.
After reaching the milestone, Ismail said Amy Jones’ wicket was not exactly how she had planned it, but she was delighted with the achievement. Asked what continues to motivate her after such a long career, she said, “My family and my teammates always make me feel young. They are the ones who inspire me to keep going.”
However, Ismail’s historic performance was not enough to take South Africa into the final. After early setbacks, England captain Nat Sciver Brunt scored 75, while former captain Heather Knight made 58. Their century partnership changed the course of the match and helped England register a 40 run win.
England will now face Australia in the final.
Most wickets in Women’s T20 World Cup history:
Shabnim Ismail, South Africa: 51 wickets
Megan Schutt, Australia: 48 wickets
Ellyse Perry, Australia: 44 wickets
Anya Shrubsole, England: 41 wickets
Marizanne Kapp, South Africa: 39 wickets