CSA delays South Africa women's T20 World Cup squad reveal until further notice in 2026

Cricket South Africa postponed the squad announcement for the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup just minutes before its scheduled unveiling.

Squad announcement delay On Monday morning, the governing body announced plans to reveal the squad live through an online press session at 11am local time. Ten minutes prior to the scheduled start, a follow-up notice stated the event would be postponed due to the need for additional internal reviews. A fresh date for the announcement will be provided later. Teams are required to submit their final squad lists for the T20 World Cup to the ICC before the early June tournament support window opens, with no changes permitted afterward unless under medical grounds or with ICC approval. ## Internal review reason The delay was attributed to a minor internal matter rather than a selection dispute, though two possible controversies may be developing. One involves a player’s availability, while the other concerns a returning star’s fitness status. The governing body has not provided further details on the nature of the internal review. ## Shabnim Ismail’s possible return Retired seamer Shabnim Ismail has made herself available for selection, and national team coach Mandla Mashimbyi is eager to include her despite her last international appearance being over three years ago. Ismail stepped away after the 2023 home T20 World Cup but has continued playing in domestic leagues. Bringing her on board would strengthen an attack currently relying heavily on Marizanne Kapp, who has been sidelined since February due to illness. ## Marizanne Kapp’s recovery status Kapp missed South Africa’s series against New Zealand and India while recovering and is expected to be fit for the T20 World Cup. Her wife, former captain Dane van Niekerk, who returned to international cricket last year, remains an uncertain selection. Van Niekerk played nine internationals during the 2025/26 season but suffered a calf injury in New Zealand and has not featured since. ## Dane van Niekerk’s fitness concerns After her return to the national team, van Niekerk has not bowled in matches, though she remains a key batting option as a finisher. There may not be space for her in the squad given limited spots and her lack of bowling contributions. Her calf injury has kept her out of action since the New Zealand series, further complicating her selection prospects.