Orlando Pirates have issued an injury update on Sihle Nduli, who suffered an ankle setback during Wednesday’s Betway Premiership clash against AmaZulu FC at Kings Park Stadium —just as he was making his return to action following a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Nduli returned to the field for the first time against AmaZulu in the Betway Premiership, having missed the second round of the previous campaign due to a long-term injury.
In a 1-1 draw against Usuthu, the defensive midfielder spent 53 minutes on the pitch before being subbed off after a rough tackle from Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya.
The injury saw Nduli return to the sidelines, joining other notable names such as Bafana Bafana stars Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa.
The 30-year-old midfielder is in his second season with the Buccaneers, having signed as a free agent after parting ways with Stellenbosch FC in July 2025.
Upon his arrival at Pirates, Nduli proved to be a reliable figure in the middle of the park, playing a major role in the club lifting the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout Cup.
Before suffering an injury last season, Nduli featured in 18 appearances across all competitions for the Sea Robbers.
The KZN-born midfielder returned to full fitness in the off-season; however, his season has been dealt a major blow yet again. On Saturday, Pirates revealed that Nduli will be out of action for four months.
SIHLE NDULI RULED OUT FOR FOUR MONTHS
“Following a 1-1 draw against AmaZulu in midweek at the Kings Park Stadium, Orlando Pirates return to action this afternoon as they take on Chippa United at the same venue,” Pirates said on their website.
“The Buccaneers will, however, head into the encounter without midfielder Sihle Nduli, who sustained a significant ankle injury during the clash against Usuthu.
“The 30-year-old was forced off during the match following a heavy challenge and, after further assessment by the Club’s medical team, has been ruled out for an extended period.
“Nduli is expected to be sidelined for approximately four months after suffering a Grade 3 ligament tear, effectively ruling him out of action for the remainder of the year.
“His absence represents a setback for the Buccaneers, with the midfielder having recently returned from a lengthy layoff from a previous injury.”
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