Spinner Tabraiz Shamsi has joined the Adelaide Strikers in the 2025-26 Big Bash League in Australia.
Shamsi withdrew from MI Cape Town’s squad for season four of the SA20 due to “personal reasons”.
He later played for the Gulf Giants in the International League T20 in the United Arab Emirates and has since joined the Strikers in the BBL after taking legal action against Cricket South Africa.
CSA granted Shamsi a no-objection certificate to play abroad until 19 December 2025. Shamsi played three matches for the Giants from 21 to 28 December. The SA20 started on 26 December. Shamsi debuted for Adelaide on 4 January 2026.
“I am grateful that the Johannesburg High Court recognised the urgency of my situation and granted interim relief,” Shamsi said in a statement from Global Sports Ventures.
“I was reluctant to take this matter to court, but it became necessary to bring certainty and resolve a situation that could not be resolved in any other way. This was never about maximising opportunities, but being able to approach my career in a considered and sustainable way.
“As a husband and a father, I also had to do what was right for my wife and our young child, and ensure stability for my family alongside the demands of a global cricket career.”
Shamsi has not retired from international cricket, but has chosen not to be contracted by Cricket South Africa. He played two Tests, 55 ODIs and 70 T20Is from 2016 to 2025.
“Looking ahead, my focus is firmly on cricket. I want to continue performing at the highest level, contributing positively wherever I play, and remaining available to represent South Africa whenever the opportunity arises,” said Shamsi.
“I have always taken immense pride in representing South Africa and remain fully committed and available to play for my country whenever called upon. Representing South Africa has been the greatest honour of my professional career.”
CSA chief executive officer Pholetsi Moseki told ESPNcricinfo: “Shamsi was not granted an NOC to participate in another T20 league due to SA20 contractual stipulations. CSA has issued the NOC based on the interim relief and will study the court’s decision to grant the same before deciding on the way forward.”