Last Updated: January 12, 2026 12:53 PM
Speed thrills everyone who loves cricket. Shabnim Ismail brings exactly that thrill every time she bowls. The South African pacer terrorises batters with her pace. She holds the record as the fastest women’s cricket bowler. Her journey to the top inspires millions around the world.
Shabnim Ismail: Speed Queen of Cricket
Shabnim Ismail retired from international cricket recently. However, she still plays T20 leagues across the globe. Her experience helps younger players learn the game better. Franchises value her knowledge as much as her bowling.
Her life wasn’t always easy though. She once worked as a speed point technician. Cricket practice happened after those long working hours. She dreamed of becoming a mechanical engineer initially. But her heart belonged to cricket completely.
Her WPL Price Details
The WPL 2026 auction took place in November 2025. Mumbai Indians picked Shabnim Ismail for ₹60 lakh there. Her base price started at just ₹40 lakh. The final WPL price still seems low for someone this good.
Many fans felt surprised seeing such a modest amount. She’s literally one of the fastest bowlers in women’s cricket history. Her speed and experience deserve much more recognition. Franchises sometimes miss opportunities during auctions surprisingly.
Her WPL Team Return
Shabnim Ismail joins the Mumbai Indians for the 2026 season. She returns to her previous WPL team after some time away. The team knows her bowling strengths very well already. Familiar surroundings should help her settle quickly.
Her WPL team will use her speed intelligently this year. She can bowl devastating spells in powerplay overs. The franchise also has other quality bowlers around her. This balance makes Mumbai’s bowling attack really strong.
Records and Raw Pace
Shabnim bowled the fastest delivery in WPL 2024. That ball against the Delhi Capitals clocked 132.1 km/h exactly. Nobody in women’s cricket bowls faster than her currently. Batters feel genuinely scared facing such an extreme pace.
Her international career brought 123 T20 wickets total. She’s already grabbed 20 wickets in WPL matches. Every unit she represents benefits from her skill. South Africa won countless matches thanks to her efforts. Expect more fireworks when the season begins.
