In a bid to ensure squad stability ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign, Marumo Gallants have secured the futures of defender Tshepo Rikhotso and midfielder Sibusiso Ncube through contract extensions.
FARPost can reveal that both players have put pen to paper on new one-year deals, which include an option to extend for a further season.
The renewals come as a boost for the Bloemfontein-based outfit, who are looking to improve on a challenging previous campaign.
The Abram Sello-owned side, finished the last season in 14th place, accumulating 25 points from 30 games and narrowly escaping the relegation chop on the last day of the 2025/26 campaign.
SIBUSISO NCUBE AND TSHEPO RIKHOTSO STAYING PUT AT MARUMO GALLANTS
Ncube, 25, was arguably one of Gallants’ standout performers last term. Since joining the club in the 2024/25 season, the talented midfielder has grown into a pivotal figure in the middle of the park.
Last season, Ncube featured in 29 games across all competitions and contributed three assists, playing a crucial role in ensuring the club maintained its top-flight status.
On the other hand, the veteran defender, Rikhotso, brings invaluable top-flight experience to the backline. The 33-year-old defender joined Gallants in 2024 on an initial two-year deal from Limpopo side, Sekhukhune United.
Rikhotso had cut ties with Babina Noko, where his contract was initially set to run until June 2025—in search of regular game time after being restricted to just 10 appearances.
While he only featured five times for Gallants in the just-ended season, his leadership and experience remain highly valued by the technical team.
With the upcoming 2026/27 season fast approaching, the Gallants management will be banking on the duo’s contrasting attributes—Ncube’s youthful energy and Rikhotso’s seasoned maturity—to help guide the team toward a much stronger finish in the Betway Premiership.
RELATED STORY: Jaisen Clifford ponders next move after Marumo Gallants spell