By Obakeng Maje
Johannesburg- Bafana Bafana have been forced to make a number of changes to the squad scheduled to play Australia and New Zealand next week.

Bafana Bafana take on the Socceroos of Australia on 26 May in Sydney and travel to Auckland for a date with New Zealand on 30 May 2014.

Coach Gordon Igesund said while the withdrawals had somehow affected his plans, he was still confident that those selected would do the country proud.

“I have put together a big squad of around 34 which is young and excited about playing for the country, so those who I have called as replacements are part of that broader squad. They are very capable players.

“All these players are part of the group that should participate in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches for 2015 in Morocco. This is an opportunity for those selected to raise their hands and be counted. They are young and should compete,” said Igesund.

The Bafana Bafana coach said there was little he could do about injuries but added he had confidence in those selected.

“It has been a long season for most of these players and there is little I can do about injuries. Injuries are part of the game of football and there is no one to be blamed for this,” he said.

Bafana Bafana leave for Australia on 22 May and play the Socceroos on 26 May before proceeding to New Zealand for a date with the New Zealanders on 30 May. The matches will be played in Sydney and Auckland respectively.

However Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teko Modise told Sundowns website that he will not be available due to prior arrangements.

“Unfortunately I will not travel with the rest of the squad due to some prior arrangements and I am honoured to be elected to represents my country. Hopefully next time as I feel honoured” Modise said.

The squad returns home on 1 June 2014.-TDN
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