The ongoing issue surrounding Itumeleng Khune’s participation in the upcoming Carling Black Label All Star match has been settled, bringing clarity to the complex situation.
After the last audit, Khune had earned the second-highest number of votes, cementing his status as a fan favourite. Based on the votes after the last calculation on 11th December 2023, the popular goalie had accumulated 34 455 votes. Orlando Pirates forward Kermit Erasmus had 35 770 while Ashley Du Preez sat on 34 159.
The Carling All Star side will light up the January 6th Black Label Cup clash against the Carling Knockout champions Stellenbosch FC at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. However, Khune’s All-Star dreams have been thrown into uncertainty following his recent suspension by Kaizer Chiefs.
The suspension, stemming from an incident involving alcohol at training, has cast a shadow over Khune’s inclusion in the All Star line-up. While the specific duration of the suspension remains undisclosed, the situation presents a complex dilemma for the Carling All-Star organisers.
Chiefs announced Khune’s suspension earlier this month for misconduct. This came after he arrived at the Kaizer Chiefs Village in Naturena under the influence of alcohol.
WHAT IS KAIZER CHIEFS’ POSITION ON ITUMELENG KHUNE’S PARTICIPATION?
His inclusion raised questions about whether he would feature in the prestigious match. However, a recent development has put an end to the speculation. “Chiefs have formally communicated with the PSL that Khune will not be taking part in the Carling All Star game,” a source said.
The club reportedly wrote to the PSL and the sponsors of the event to clarify their position on the matter. Initially, the PSL and the sponsors’ approach was to be guided by the club on the matter.
Including Khune would have been seen as condoning or undermining the club’s disciplinary action. When announcing the suspension, Chiefs made it clear recently that upholding club discipline was paramount. The 36-year-old’s suspension sends a clear message about expected player conduct.
Meanwhile, the All-Stars, is a unique squad combining the best of both worlds. It includes six top-tier PSL players voted in by position, and five rising stars from the Diski Challenge showcasing the future of South African football.
But there’s a twist. To ensure all PSL teams get a fair shot at All Star glory, the starting XI can’t have more than four players from one team.
The Carling Black Label All-Stars vs Stellenbosch FC showdown at the Peter Mokaba Stadium promises to be a nail-biter.
RELATED STORY: BOMBSHELL: Itumeleng Khune in hot water, faces suspension and demotion at Chiefs
