The Bafana Bafana defender has been sidelined for over a year after suffering a serious knee injury toward the end of the 2024/25 season.

Although initial reports suggested a smooth recovery following surgery, setbacks - including the need for a second operation - have delayed his comeback, stretching his absence to 13 months.

However, there is finally light at the end of the tunnel. Speaking after Chiefs' goalless draw against Polokwane City FC at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, Kaze confirmed that Dortley has resumed light ball work.

"That's a question that will probably be directed to the medical team. But last week he started to touch the ball, and I am pretty sure that he's not far from returning," said Kaze.

Despite the positive progress, Dortley now faces a race against time to force his way back into the national setup ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Hugo Broos is expected to finalise his squad in the coming months, and the defender's prolonged absence may count against him.

Meanwhile, Kaze also shed light on the cautious approach being taken with Reeve Frosler, who recently returned from injury. The 28-year-old showed glimpses of sharpness after creating two chances off the bench against Magesi FC.

"He was out injured for a long time. A player like that, you want to introduce him step by step and not to go in with the excitement or hype or giving him too much workload, and there is a risk of injury," Kaze explained.

"He's a player who is coming along very well, and he's a player who can help and has a lot of experience. He has an attacking flair, and his tackling is good. He's intelligent when he gets into positions where he can make good crosses, and I am pretty sure that from now until the end of the season, he will help a lot."

Meanwhile, Amakhosi will be hard at work this week in preparation for the Soweto Derby clash against Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

Bafana cause midweek shake-up in DStv Premiership schedule