Shabnim Ismail

Shabnim Ismail, famously known as the 'Demon Deacon,' is a legendary fast bowler from South Africa whose blistering pace has redefined the limits of women's cricket. Born on October 5, 1988, in Cape Town, she retired from international cricket in 2023 as her country's all-time leading wicket-taker in both ODIs and T20Is. Her 2025 season was a masterclass in elite longevity; at 37 years old, she spearheaded the Mumbai Indians' bowling attack to their second title in three years. She was the hero of the 2025 WPL Final against the Delhi Capitals, where she defended a modest total by conceding just 15 runs in her four overs and taking the crucial wicket of Shafali Verma. Earlier in 2024, she made global headlines by bowling the fastest delivery ever recorded in women's cricket, a thunderbolt clocked at 132.1 km/h—the first time the 130 km/h barrier was officially breached.

In the late 2025 WPL mega auction, Ismail's status as the world's premier fast-bowling mercenary was reaffirmed. Despite being retired from the international stage for over two years, she was a top priority for the Mumbai Indians, who re-secured her services for ₹60 lakh. Her return to the 'One Family' franchise ensures that Mumbai retains its most potent weapon for the 2026 season starting in January. Known for her fierce competitive spirit and a training regimen she jokingly attributes to her love for spicy food, Ismail remains a central figure in global leagues, also representing the Welsh Fire in The Hundred and the Sydney Thunder in the WBBL. As she prepares for another title defense in 2026, her presence remains a terrifying prospect for any batter facing the new ball.