Mamelodi Sundowns defender Grant Kekana has made it clear that he has not given up hope of returning to the Bafana Bafana setup under new head coach Pitso Mosimane.
At 34, the experienced centre-back is aware that competition for places has changed considerably since his last involvement with the national team. However, Kekana believes his performances at club level could still give him an opportunity to force his way back into the picture.
Kekana still believes a return is possible
Kekana was an important member of the Bafana squad that finished third at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
His international career subsequently lost momentum after injuries and a dip in form affected his involvement. He was not part of South Africa’s squad for the 2025 AFCON and also missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Despite that setback, the Sundowns defender insists he remains motivated to compete for another opportunity.
Kekana says he currently feels in good shape and believes the best approach is to concentrate on maintaining his performances rather than worrying about his age.
New competition in the Bafana defence
The challenge for Kekana is that Mosimane has already begun building a new-look defensive group.
Young centre-backs including Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Olwethu Makhanya and Ime Okon have established themselves within the national-team setup, giving the coach several options for the future.
Most of the current central defenders are considerably younger than Kekana, while several have also gained experience playing outside South Africa.
That creates a difficult pathway back into the squad for the veteran Sundowns defender.
However, Kekana has taken a respectful approach towards the players currently selected, acknowledging that they have earned their places.
Experience remains part of Kekana’s case
While youth has become an increasingly prominent feature of the Bafana defence, Kekana offers something different: extensive experience at both domestic and international level.
His contribution to South Africa’s run at AFCON 2023 remains an important part of his international record.
For Kekana, the task now is to continue performing consistently for Sundowns and leave the selection decision in Mosimane’s hands.
Rather than demanding a recall, the defender appears focused on proving that he remains capable of contributing at international level.
Ngezana also targeting a return
Kekana is not the only experienced South African defender hoping to return to the national team.
Siyabonga Ngezana, 29, is also looking to regain his place in the Bafana setup. His age and previous international involvement put him among the other established defenders competing for opportunities.
That means Kekana faces a crowded field if he wants to add to his international appearances.
Mosimane’s selection decisions will ultimately determine whether the Sundowns defender gets another opportunity.
The door remains open
Kekana’s message is ultimately about continuing to work and remaining ready should another Bafana opportunity arrive.
At 34, he may be one of the more experienced defenders competing for recognition, but his previous contribution to the national team means he knows what it takes to perform on the international stage.
For now, his focus is on Sundowns and maintaining the level of form required to keep himself in the conversation.
Should Grant Kekana get another opportunity with Bafana Bafana?
