Junior Khanye questions Zwane and Mbuthuma’s Bafana Bafana call-ups

Junior Khanye has questioned the inclusion of Themba Zwane and Yanela Mbuthuma in Pitso Mosimane’s 30-man Bafana Bafana squad.

The pair have been selected for South Africa’s 2027 CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea at Orlando Amstel Arena on 26 September and Eritrea on 30 September. Bafana Bafana will then face Egypt in an additional friendly match next month.

Khanye said he was particularly surprised by Zwane’s selection, given the Mamelodi Sundowns forward’s limited role under manager Miguel Cardoso this season.

Zwane, known as ‘Mshishi’, has made five appearances in all competitions and has provided two assists. He has not established himself as a regular starter for Sundowns.

Mbuthuma has also faced criticism since moving to Orlando Pirates from Richards Bay. However, the striker has started the current campaign with two goals and two assists in nine appearances across all competitions.

Speaking on Metro FM’s Sports Night Amplified With Andile, Khanye said he did not understand why either player had been selected, despite his admiration for Mosimane and Zwane.

“The bringing of the likes of Mbuthuma, me I don’t understand,” he said.

“I love coach Pitso and I love his identity. The way his team plays, I love him.

“So, coach Pitso bringing Mbuthuma I don’t understand why that’s why many people will ask questions.”

Khanye then turned his attention to Zwane, while acknowledging the player’s achievements and his long-standing relationship with Mosimane.

“I love Themba Mshishi. He’s done well for himself individually, but it’s unnecessary for me. He’s not playing for Sundowns,” he said.

“You’re bringing him in for what? I don’t understand. I know they’ve got good relationship they come a long way with coach Pitso and Mshishi.

“But currently, you saying you’re judging players based on their current performance and then Mshishi where’s he going? He’s not even playing at Sundowns regularly.

“So, it doesn’t make sense as well.”