Rushwin Dortley returns to Kaizer Chiefs squad after 20-month injury absence

Rushwin Dortley has returned to the Kaizer Chiefs travelling squad after an extended injury absence, giving the club a potential defensive boost ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup tie against Red Arrows in Zambia.

The 24-year-old has not played for Chiefs since 1 March 2025, when Nasreddine Nabi was still in charge. He has subsequently missed 64 matches and is now two weeks away from completing 20 months since his last appearance for the club.

Dortley’s recovery has included two knee operations and several hospital visits. The lengthy lay-off also ruled him out of opportunities with both his club and the national team.

During his absence, Bafana Bafana’s other left-footed central defenders Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Khulumani Ndamane have collected a combined 20 international caps.

Kaizer Chiefs have taken a cautious approach to Dortley’s return, despite the defender having trained fully, or close to fully, for several weeks. His inclusion in the squad travelling to Zambia is nevertheless significant because he is once again available for selection and can begin working towards a return to competitive action.

More defensive options for Chiefs

Dortley is part of the squad for the first leg of the second qualifying round of the CAF Confederation Cup against Red Arrows.

His return gives Chiefs another option at left centre-back alongside Bradley Cross. Paseka Mako and Kabelo Nkgwesa are available at left-back, allowing Thabiso Monyange and Reeve Frosler to provide the right-back alternatives.

At right-footed central defence, Chiefs can call on Inacio Miguel, Zitha Kwinika and Thabo Moloisane.

The travelling squad therefore gives the Soweto club greater flexibility across the backline as they prepare for the tie, while allowing Dortley to continue the final stage of his return after nearly 20 months away from official club football.

Dortley’s last appearance came before Nabi’s departure as Chiefs coach, and his rehabilitation has kept him out for a period long enough to reshape the defensive options available to both club and country. His presence in Zambia does not yet mark a competitive return, but it places him back within the first-team selection picture.