Siphiwe Tshabalala says his desire to reach 100 caps for Bafana Bafana remains alive despite making his last appearance in the senior national team three years ago. The influential Kaizer Chiefs midfielder has been stuck on 88 caps since the calamity of the 2014 CHAN finals. But such has been his effectiveness at his club this season that he has started all of the last 17 games and been substituted just thrice through all those matches. Not only has Tshabalala provided his trademark assists he has also contributed four goals. “I think with regards to the national team it’s up to the national team selectors,” says Tshabalala. “When they choose other players obviously those players are happy and they have to seize the moment and it is hard luck to those who are not chosen. But that will not break my spirit. I have had the opportunity to play for the national team 88 times and if I don’t get another opportunity I won’t be a bitter person.

"I am a happy person, working very hard, I am in a good shape both mentally and physically. I am just a free person and I will keep on working very hard for my team. Hopefully it will come and if it doesn’t come I am still okay as well.” 'Shabba' remains second on the all-time Bafana Bafana most capped players list behind Aaron Mokoena (107) and is now under threat of being overtaken by Itumeleng Khune, who is on 82 caps. In the meantime, his focus remains on Chiefs who are holding it up in the race for both the league title and the Nedbank Cup. “I chose this career because of the love and the talent, and I am not here to add numbers. I am here to add value and leave an impact by contributing so that I leave a legacy,” he notes.

"So there is no better way to do that than winning trophies, winning the league with the team and competing. For me I also have a responsibility to play well all the time, help the team and contribute the best way that I can and by doing that the rewards will be big and we will definitely win trophies.