London, June 1 -- South Africa received a major boost ahead of the Women's T20 World Cup as Shabnim Ismail starred in a narrow victory over Australia at Arundel Castle in England.
In an unofficial warm-up fixture ahead of the tournament beginning on June 12, South Africa posted 163/7 after opting to bat first. A crucial 88-run partnership between experienced all-rounder Marizanne Kapp (49) and rising youngster Kayla Reyneke (45) helped steady the innings and push the Proteas towards a competitive total.
Australia's chase ultimately fell short by seven runs, but the biggest talking point came from Ismail's return to international action after reversing her retirement to help the Proteas take the final leap in the upcoming tournament.
The ...