Bafana Bafana caretaker coach David Notoane has explained the reason for including Keagan Dolly in his 23-man squad for the upcoming Cosafa Cup in KwaMashu, Durban, writes DYLAN APPOLIS.

Notoane, who is the South African U23 coach, was tasked with leading the national team for the Cosafa Cup tournament, with Bafana coach Stuart Baxter given time to prepare for the African Cup of Nations (Afcon) tournament in Egypt next month.

Speaking during the squad announcement on Tuesday, Notoane revealed that Dolly was included in his 23-man squad to give him much-needed game time ahead of the Afcon tournament.

‘We know his [Keagan Dolly’s] challenges with injuries for the season,’ Notoane said.

‘When we discussed with the coach [Stuart Baxter], we agreed to afford him the opportunity to get more game time after overcoming his injury challenges.

‘He is back to full fitness at his club [Montpellier], so we are happy to help Bafana Bafana in terms of the bigger picture, which is the Afcon preparation for coach Stuart Baxter.’

Bafana Bafana are set to face Botswana in their opening Cosafa Cup encounter when the two sides square off at the Princess Magogo Stadium on 2 June, with kick-off set for 3pm.