Jele helped Pirates reach the CAF Confederation Cup Final against Al-Ahly on Sunday. The versatile defender, who has yet to get a call-up under Mashaba's reign, has reiterated his desire to represent Bafana.
"For me, I still have to work hard so that the Bafana Bafana coach can select me," says Jele.
"I still want to play for my country but for now my focus is on Orlando Pirates.
"It's very important for SA teams to play in such competitions because you learn a lot in terms of experiencing a certain level so that our country can go up a certain level as well."
The Buccaneers have had to do without regular captain Oupa Manyisa and experienced defender Siyabonga Sangweni over the two legged semi-final.
Jele credits senior players for raising their hand up.
"A lot of senior players are taking responsibility and taking certain roles in the team and we're hoping that the young guys are going to learn from senior players."
Pirates are expected to land at the OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday afternoon following the long trip to Egypt.