The Cato Ridge-born defender made his Bafana Bafana debut last weekend in a 3-1 World Cup qualifying win over Burkina Faso.
Mkhize held his own against the Burkinabe but his availability for the MTN8 decider against SuperSport United was put in doubt after he hobbled his way through the closing stages of the international fixture after picking up an injury.
However, the 29-year-old has allayed fears he could miss Saturday’s clash, as he looks to add to the Telkom Knockout crown he won with the Citizens last year.
“I’m fortunately not injured – it was just a knock,” he told reporters. “We are all excited, and are all looking forward to our second final – it’s a motivation for us. Obviously we want to win this cup. It won’t be easy, but we have to work hard in order for us to win.”
Describing his maiden national team call-up as a “good experience”, the soft-spoken defender was quick to thank club coach Benni McCarthy for his guidance since arriving in the Mother City.
“I have to thank Benni, as he’s always there for me, always motivating me, giving me words of encouragement and correcting me when I make mistakes,” he said. “I’m grateful for that.”
The former Golden Arrows and Maritzburg United player says he’s looking forward to playing at Moses Mabhida Stadium tomorrow evening, with family and close friends sure to be in attendance.
“I’m looking forward to playing in front of my home crowd,” he says with a smile.
Kick-off is set for 19h00.