Orlando Pirates appoint new captain ahead of 2025/26 season
Orlando Pirates have confirmed the appointment of the club's new captain and vice-captains ahead of the start of the 2025/26 season.
Nkosinathi Sibisi has been named as the Buccaneers' new skipper, taking over from Innocent Maela, who retired at the end of last season.
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'Bhodlela', as Sibisi is affectionately known in football circles, will be assisted by Thapelo Xoki and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who have been named as vice-captains.
'The position of captain has been vacant since the departure of long-serving defender Innocent Maela. Maela has led from 2022 to date, having taken over from another stalwart and legend, Happy Jele,' read a statement from Pirates.
'In keeping with club tradition, the appointment came directly from the players themselves through a confidential voting process.
'Emerging as the team's clear choice to wear the captain's armband is defender Nkosinathi Sibisi.'
Speaking on his new captaincy announcement, Sibisi said: 'It is truly an honour and privilege to be named captain of this great institution. It's a responsibility that I accept and promise to fulfil the role in the best way I possibly can.'
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Sibisi captained the Buccaneers for most of the previous campaign as Olisa Ndah and Tapelo Xoki were injured, while Maela spent more time on the bench.
Pirates kick off the 2025/26 season on Saturday with an MTN8 quarterfinal clash against Polokwane City at the Orlando Stadium.
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