Caleb Clarke ruled out of All Blacks squad due to injury ahead of match against Springboks

South African national team defender Bafana Bafana, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, will be unable to participate in the remainder of the Major League Soccer (MLS) season due to a torn thigh muscle. Chicago Fire FC coach Greg Berhalter confirmed this information, which raises concerns ahead of the upcoming AFCON qualifying campaign.

Bafana Bafana

Mbokazi, who is 20 years old, has established himself as one of the most important defenders for the national team during the historic World Cup campaign. He played every minute when Bafana reached the World Cup playoffs, demonstrating mature performances that strengthened his growing reputation.

The injury occurred shortly after the player returned to club training following the tournament. Berhalter reported on the extent of the problem before the Chicago Fire vs. Necaxa match in the Leagues Cup, specifying that Mbokazi will not play this season.

Greg Berhalter told Apple TV that 'Mbokazi's absence for a year is tough.' He added that it is now important for the next player to step up and for the team to be difficult to break down by closing spaces and playing compactly.

This injury concludes Mbokazi's outstanding debut season in MLS. The central defender quickly adapted to life in the United States, starting all 12 regular season matches and becoming a key figure in the Chicago Fire's defensive structure.

His skill was recognized by fans: Mbokazi received the most fan votes at the 2026 MLS All-Star Game before the injury sidelined him from the event.

For Bafana Bafana, the timing of the injury is worrying as the national team prepares for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Mbokazi's presence provided South Africa with necessary stability in the central defense, especially after his participation in the defense that helped the team compete with some of the world's best at the World Cup.

Now, Mbokazi's absence puts the team in the task of finding a successor while Bafana begins preparation for another important qualifying campaign. Nevertheless, the main focus will be on Mbokazi's recovery, rather than the setback itself.

At only 20 years old, the defender has already demonstrated the ability to play at the highest level, and his performances in 2026 position him as one of South Africa's most promising young players. Chicago Fire must now find a solution without one of its bright performers, while Bafana hopes that Mbokazi will return stronger and continue his rapid growth on the international stage.

All Blacks hooker Cody Taylor shared his thoughts on how he misses tours to South Africa during the Super Rugby tournament. Although the All Blacks teams may no longer be able to compete annually with the United Rugby Championship (URC) franchises, the experienced hooker admits that New Zealand players still greatly miss these encounters.

Before South Africa left Super Rugby a couple of seasons ago, matchups between the Crusaders, Blues, Hurricanes, Chiefs, and Highlanders against the Stormers, Bulls, Sharks, and Lions were considered some of the most intense in the tournament. The physical aspect, unique playing styles, and the atmosphere—which was sometimes hostile and sometimes welcoming—made trips to the country a highlight for many New Zealand players.

Now that the South African teams participate in the URC, these regular clashes have disappeared, leaving only international windows and rare tours, such as the upcoming 'Major Rugby Rivalry,' for the two nations to meet again.

Taylor admitted that this change has been somewhat disappointing, especially considering the different challenge presented by the South African teams. He stated: 'Yes, frankly, it's terrible not being able to come here for Super Rugby.' He added: 'I liked those tours, I liked the competitions we had against all the clubs. It's a different kind of rugby than what we see at home, and you get an idea of it when you come here. Big, physically strong men, great set-piece teams, but also forwards who can wear you down quickly.'

These memories remain fresh in Taylor's mind, particularly the last Crusaders visit to Cape Town, which ended in a draw against the Stormers—a result that vividly showed how fiercely the contest between the South Africans and the Kiwis was played at the club rugby level.

However, now that the local teams are firmly integrated into the URC, the visitors are happy to revive this rivalry, starting with the first match of the round at the DHL Stadium on Friday. Taylor noted: 'Just thinking back to 2019, we came here, played the Stormers, and drew. Competition is always there, even if we don't play each other often. Well, that's how it is. Who knows, maybe it will happen again someday.'