Orlando Pirates have provided a timely injury update on midfield duo Kabelo Dlamini and Sihle Nduli as the battle for the Betway Premiership title reaches a boiling point.
With only a single goal separating the Buccaneers from Mamelodi Sundowns at the summit, the health of the squad has become a central focus for head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. The Soweto giants are desperate to end a long-standing league drought, having last tasted Premiership glory 14 years ago in the 2011/12 season.
While Pirates have established themselves as South Africa’s ‘cup kings’—securing seven trophies in the last four seasons—the league title has remained elusive. Under former coach Jose Riveiro, the Buccaneers collected five titles [three MTN8s and two Nedbank Cup], a momentum that has continued under Abdeslam Ouaddou, who has already steered the side to two trophies this season: the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout Cup.
Despite this knockout dominance, the Sea Robbers have finished as runners-up to Sundowns for three consecutive seasons. However, with the club currently perched at the top, there is a growing sense that this could finally be the year they reclaim the throne.
Pirates currently sit atop the log, level on 47 points with Sundowns after 20 games, leading only on goal difference. Saturday’s league clash against Siwelele FC presents a golden opportunity to open a three-point gap. This comes as Sundowns shift their focus to continental duties, having placed one foot in the CAF Champions League semi-finals with a 3-0 demolition of Stade Malien on Friday night.
To aid this final sprint, Pirates have shed light on the recovery of Dlamini and Nduli, both of whom are nearing full fitness.
KABELO DLAMINI AND SIHLE NDULI: THE ROAD TO RECOVERY
Dlamini, who has been sidelined since November 2025, is reportedly making significant strides in his rehabilitation. The former Bloemfontein Celtic playmaker last featured in the 2-0 win over Durban City FC on 29 November. Before his setback, Dlamini had made nine appearances this season, contributing two assists.
Similarly, Nduli is progressing well as he nears a competitive return to action. Nduli, who sustained an injury against Golden Arrows last year in November, had quickly become a cornerstone of Ouaddou’s system. The 30-year-old was instrumental in Pirates’ early-season success, featuring in 18 games and helping the club clinch the MTN8 trophy.
…”Pirates could be boosted by the likes of Kabelo Dlamini and Sihle Nduli, who continue to make strides in recovering from injuries that have kept them out of action,” said the club’s medical department.
Meanwhile, Siwelele are managing their own concerns ahead of the trip to Soweto. They are sweating over the fitness of former Kaizer Chiefs attacker Tebogo Potsane.
Potsane was stretchered off during their recent victory against TS Galaxy, and his potential absence is a massive blow for a side that has struggled for goals on the road, netting just three times in nine away outings this campaign. He has netted two goals and provided two assists in 12 league games this campaign.
The clash between Pirates and Siwelele is scheduled to take place at the Orlando Amstel Arena, with kick-off confirmed for 15:30 CAT.
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