Cassius and Singh happy to be back with Bafana

Cyrus-born Luther Singh and Mamelodi Sundowns' Cassius Mailula expressed joy at returning to the national team, Bafana Bafana, under new coach Pitso Mosimane. The two attacking players joined the squad in Johannesburg on Sunday, ahead of upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and an international friendly against Egypt. Mosimane confirmed all locally based players had reported for camp, with Singh and Norway-based Samukele Kabini also joining.

Mosimane hinted that a decision on Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Lebohang Maboe would be made once scans assessed the impact of his ankle injury. Both Singh and Mailula had previously caught the attention of previous coach Hugo Broos but never found a place in his plans. They were overjoyed upon receiving the call-up and an opportunity to once again represent their country.

Singh remarked that he had always believed he belonged to the national team, regardless of previous coaches, and expressed gratitude for the renewed chance. Mailula echoed Singh's sentiments, crediting his comeback to his confidence garnered from the recent call-up. All locally based players are now in camp, while most overseas-based players are expected to join in the coming days.

Only Singh and Samukele Kabini had arrived ahead of the start of training on Monday. Mosimane's technical team now includes Marcus Mashilo, who has joined as goalkeeper coach.