Proteas seamer Shabnim Ismail will miss this season’s Women’s Big Bash League.
Ismail was due to return to the Sydney Thunder, but has been sidelined by a knee injury.
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“She took a bad knock and unfortunately Shabnim won’t be able to play in this season’s WBBL competition,” said Thunder coach Trevor Griffin.
“It’s terrible news because she’s been an important member of Sydney Thunder over the last couple of seasons.
“She showed her class in the final against the Melbourne Stars at North Sydney Oval last year. I’m just as disappointed for her because I know how much she enjoys being a part of the WBBL.”
Ismail was named Player of the Final in last season’s WBBL, as the Thunder beat the Stars to claim the title.
Du Preez leaves Stars for Hurricanes
Meanwhile, fellow Proteas star Mignon du Preez has ended a lengthy six-season stay with the Stars in the WBBL.
Du Preez has joined the Hobart Hurricanes.
“I’ve obviously loved my time playing with the Stars, but am really looking forward to this new challenge with the Hurricanes,” said du Preez.
“From afar, the Hurricanes have been running a great program for several years now and have been building a great list over the off-season, so I can’t wait to experience it for myself.
“It’s a great competition the WBBL, involving the best group of female cricketers in the world. I think with the team the Hurricanes have built for this season, combining both old and new faces, we will really have the opportunity to make a statement on-field this year.”