Kaizer Chiefs legend Doctor Khumalo has raised serious concerns over the omission of Wydad AC midfielder Thembinkosi Lorch from the latest Bafana Bafana squad, describing the decision as “questionable” and out of touch with current form.
Speaking on the issue, Khumalo said Lorch’s performances in Morocco should have placed him firmly in contention for a national team recall. “Looking at him, let’s be honest—he is outside South Africa and everybody is raving about him,” Khumalo argued, insisting that the 31-year-old attacker has shown enough quality to warrant at least a trial call-up. “I would've expected a call-up for this game, just to see. This wouldn't be the first call-up for the national team.”
Lorch has been one of Wydad AC’s standout performers since his arrival, earning praise from both local and North African analysts for his creativity, ball progression, and big-match temperament. His resurgence abroad has reignited debates back home about whether the national selectors are paying adequate attention to South African players thriving outside the Premier Soccer League.
The exclusion has left many supporters confused, with some arguing that Bafana Bafana needs more attacking flair and international exposure within the squad. Khumalo’s remarks have intensified those conversations, highlighting the recurring concern that top-performing players abroad are sometimes overlooked in favour of more familiar domestic selections.
Bafana coach Hugo Broos has not publicly addressed the reasoning behind leaving Lorch out, but past comments suggest he prioritises squad stability and players who consistently fit into his tactical system. Still, Khumalo believes that form should be impossible to ignore—especially from a player who has previously delivered in national colours.
As Bafana prepare for their next assignment, pressure is mounting for clearer communication around selection choices. With Lorch enjoying one of the strongest runs of his recent career, the debate sparked by Khumalo is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
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