At 37, Shabnim Ismail Aims for Another WPL Championship with Mumbai Indians

At 37 years old, Shabnim Ismail continues to impress with her remarkable speed as a fast bowler. The South African cricketer recently clocked an astonishing 132.1 km/h during a Women’s Premier League (WPL) match in March 2024, reaffirming her status as one of the fastest bowlers in women’s cricket. After playing a pivotal role in the Mumbai Indians’ title-winning campaign in WPL 2025, Ismail is back with the franchise, having been acquired for Rs 60 lakh at the WPL mini auction. Her return is seen as a significant boost for the team as they aim for further success.

Shabnim Ismail’s Return to Mumbai Indians

Shabnim Ismail expressed her excitement about rejoining the Mumbai Indians, a franchise she has been part of for two seasons. She highlighted the team’s strong sense of family and unity, which played a crucial role in her decision to return. “I’m so happy to be back at Mumbai Indians. What a wonderful franchise to be a part of,” Ismail stated. Her experience and skill make her one of the franchise’s key players. Alongside Ismail, the Mumbai Indians have also strengthened their bowling lineup by signing two new overseas seamers, Nicola Carey and Milly Illingworth. Ismail is optimistic about their contributions, noting their impressive skills and potential to enhance the team’s performance.

Key Contributions in WPL 2025

Ismail’s impact was evident during the WPL 2025 final, where she delivered a stellar performance that helped secure the championship for the Mumbai Indians. In a tense match against the Delhi Capitals, Ismail bowled four overs, conceding just 15 runs and taking the crucial wicket of Shafali Verma. Despite posting a modest total of 149/7, the Mumbai Indians managed to restrict Delhi to 141/9, clinching the title. Reflecting on the final, Ismail recalled the pressure of defending a low score and emphasized the importance of maintaining composure in high-stress situations. Her leadership and experience were vital in guiding the team through the challenges of the match.

The Spirit of Team Unity

Ismail attributes much of the Mumbai Indians’ success to the strong camaraderie and leadership within the team. She mentioned key players like Nat Sciver-Brunt, Matt Healy, Amelia Kerr, Amanjot Kaur, and captain Harmanpreet Kaur, highlighting the special bond they share. “What makes us so successful is that we believe we are One Family,” Ismail remarked. This unity fosters a supportive environment where players can thrive, regardless of the match outcome. The memory of winning the WPL final stands out for Ismail, especially after the disappointment of losing a close match the previous year. Her commitment to the team’s goals and collective spirit is a driving force behind their achievements.

Maintaining Elite Performance

Now retired from international cricket, Ismail remains dedicated to maintaining her status as one of the top fast bowlers in the world. She emphasizes the importance of professionalism and fitness, particularly at her age. “At the age of 37, you know what your body needs and doesn’t,” she explained. Ismail’s training regimen focuses on staying fit and healthy, ensuring she can compete at the highest level. When asked about her secret to maintaining her speed, she humorously mentioned her love for spicy food as a key ingredient in her diet. Her determination to remain among the elite bowlers reflects her passion for the sport and her commitment to excellence.

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