The 19-year-old has been a standout performer for the Buccaneers this season and recently made his senior Bafana Bafana debut in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Mbokazi featured in the 1-0 win over Lesotho and the 1-1 draw against Nigeria, earning Man-of-the-Match honours against experienced internationals such as Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi.
Many expected him to be a key inclusion in coach Raymond Mdaka's 21-player squad announced on Thursday.
Bafana coach Hugo Broos has previously hailed Mbokazi as one of South Africa's top defensive prospects, capable of thriving in Europe's top leagues. His omission, therefore, has sparked debate among fans and pundits.
Mbokazi is not the only notable absence. Belgium-based winger Shandre Campbell, who plays for Club Brugge, was also left out, despite participating in the most recent preparatory camp in Johannesburg.
The reigning Under-20 African champions have been drawn in Group E alongside France, the USA, and New Caledonia.
Amajita final squad:
Fletcher Smythe-Lowe (Estoril Praia, Portugal)
Takalani Mazhamba (Kaizer Chiefs)
Kgoleng Ratisani (Sekhukhune United)
Sfiso Timba (Kaizer Chiefs)
Asekho Tiwani (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Neo Rapo (Siwelele FC)
Siviwe Nkwali (Stellenbosch FC)
Thato Sibiya (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Tylon Smith (Queens Park Rangers, England)
Lazola Maku (Siwelele FC)
Patrick Autata (Durban City)
Gomolemo Kekana (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Kutlwano Letlhaku (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Langelihle Phili (Stellenbosch FC)
Mfundo Vilakazi (Kaizer Chiefs)
Shakeel April (Cape Town City)
Siyabonga Mabena (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Thabang Mahlangu (Siwelele FC)
Jody Ah Shene (Cape Town City)
Siviwe Magidigidi (Siwelele FC)
Luke Baartman (Kaizer Chiefs)
Amajita coach Raymond Mdaka believes Steven Mendes has the potential to develop into a top striker after the youngster's impressive showing at the Under-20 COSAFA Cup in Mozambique.
South African winger Shandre Campbell is set to start a new chapter in his career after joining newly-promoted Belgian club KV Kortrijk on a four-year contract.
Amajita midfielder Kgomotso Madiba has signed for Brasileiro Serie A side Fluminense.
Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos believes Mbekezeli Mbokazi's commanding display against Egypt at the 2025 AFCON has reinforced his controversial stance on the defender's recent move to the MLS.
