Proteas star Ismail far from done, eyes another World Cup: 'I'm peaking'

It was a disappointing performance from the Proteas, who had a lot of expectations at this year's Women's Cricket World Cup in New Zealand.

South Africa suffered a 137-run semi-final defeat against defending champions England at Hagley Oval, falling short of a historic final against world number one Australia.

And for a few members of this stellar squad, and with the next 50-over World Cup scheduled only in England 2025, this could have been their last chance of World Cup glory.

READ | Golden generation Proteas earn respect, pride of SA, but where to now?

At 33, Ismail has shown no signs of stopping, however.

The fiery Proteas fast bowler hasn't been silent during this year's campaign as Ismail finished with 14 wickets to sit second on the highest wicket-taker standings.

Ismail will be 36 years old at the 2025 World Cup, expected to be played in England and no one knows how long the Proteas' will be blessed with her consistency.

"For me, it's pretty simple. I mean, I feel in my cricketing career; I'm just peaking at the right time," Ismail told reporters in Christchurch on Thursday.

"I know I'm 33 years old now, but I feel that my career is going in the right direction. So hopefully, when we get to England, we can get our revenge.

"Also in saying that, it's not only about getting revenge but playing good cricket and smart cricket as well."

Ismail was the star bowler for the Proteas in Thursday's semi-final as she took three for 46 but said that the experienced players should've stepped up more.

"We won England before, but tonight just wasn't our night. The older players in the team knew what we had to do tonight and we couldn't get over the line," said Ismail.

Wicketkeeper-batter Trisha Chetty is also 33 with batter Mignon du Preez