Hunt explains decision to pass on Mashiane as ex-Kaizer Chiefs defender seeks game time

Gavin Hunt says Stellenbosch FC opted not to offer former Kaizer Chiefs left-back Happy Mashiane a contract because the defender lacks the match sharpness required to make an immediate impact.

Mashiane, 28, left Chiefs recently after a 12-year spell but has featured only sporadically in recent seasons, including a loan move to Siwelele FC last term that yielded just a single appearance under coach Lehlohonolo Seema.

Speaking at the launch of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign on Wednesday, Stellenbosch head coach Hunt confirmed that Mashiane spent time on trial with the Cape Winelands club, but admitted he could not justify signing a player who needs a prolonged period to rediscover his rhythm.

“He came on and had a trial,” Hunt said.

“But then again, he hadn’t played football again for four years. The four years since I had left there [Chiefs], I don’t think he must have played more than five games.

“So, he needs to get back and play. Exactly what I said to him. I said to him if he can get a team and try and play regular again 30 games or 40 games a season.

“He can take time you know and we need somebody now.”

Fitness and form at the heart of Hunt’s call

Hunt’s comments underline the challenge facing Mashiane, who burst onto the scene at Kaizer Chiefs but has since struggled to establish himself as a regular starter.

The coach, who previously worked with Mashiane during his own spell at Naturena, stressed that the decision was based purely on the player’s lack of recent game time rather than his ability or attitude.

Hunt’s reference to the “four years since I had left there” highlights a period in which the defender has seen minimal action at senior level, limiting his opportunity to build consistency and maintain competitive sharpness.

With Stellenbosch preparing for a demanding new Betway Premiership campaign, Hunt made clear that his priority is players capable of contributing immediately, rather than those who require an extended bedding-in phase.

Mashiane urged to rebuild career with regular games

Despite turning down the chance to sign him, Hunt said he had encouraged Mashiane to find a club where he can play consistently across an entire season.

The coach believes that only a sustained run of fixtures – potentially 30 to 40 matches in a campaign – will allow the defender to regain his best form and relaunch his career at the top level.

Mashiane’s exit from Kaizer Chiefs brought an end to a lengthy association with the Soweto giants, but his limited use in recent years and the unsuccessful loan stint at Siwelele FC have left him in need of a fresh start and regular football.

Hunt’s stance reflects a broader reality in the Betway Premiership, where coaches often balance long-term potential against the immediate demands of results and squad readiness.

For now, Stellenbosch will look elsewhere to strengthen at left-back, while Mashiane continues his search for a new club willing to give him the extended run of games his former coach believes he needs.