Turning 35 in one month's time, Ismail is set to celebrate her birthday as a Lioness. Now a proud member of the DP World Lions Ladies, the country’s all-time leading wicket-taker in both the ODI and T20 International formats of the game in women's cricket, will don the Lions badge and stride out in yellow and blue this season.

Having made her debut for the national team in 2007, Ismail recently stepped down from her international duties with the Proteas, choosing to serve out her priceless playing days in the SA Domestic League at the Pride of Jozi.

“I am really looking forward to joining the DP World Lions family again. I am grateful for the opportunity as I love the game and thrive on keeping active. I am certainly ready to put my hand up this season and make it count!”

DP World Lions ladies head coach Shaun Pretorius said that Shabnim is ‘invaluable’; “You can’t put a price tag on a player of Shabnim’s ability, experience and passion. Her work ethic, determination, knowledge and love of the game align to the Lions' Way. This Pride is proud to have her and all those at DP World Wanderers Stadium warmly welcome her.”

CEO of Lions Cricket Jono Leaf-Wright concurred: “We’re thrilled to add this superstar to our already powerful Pride. The level-headed Shabnim exemplifies our passion to succeed, not only with bat and ball in hand, but beyond the boundary ropes as she imparts her extensive knowledge to all those she interacts with. It is our honour to have her join us and I for one, cannot wait for the season to unravel.”

Shabnim will join Sinalo Jafta as the team’s most recent additions to the current CSA T20 competition champions as they look to not only retain that title, but add more to the cabinet come campaign kick-off later this month.