Sekhukhune United extend Orlando Pirates defender Tshepo Mashiloane’s loan spell

South African Premiership side Sekhukhune United have extended the loan stay of Orlando Pirates right-back Tshepo Mashiloane for another season as the club continues preparations for the upcoming campaign.

The defender initially joined Babina Noko on loan from the Buccaneers last season and impressed enough for the club to retain his services. Sekhukhune have now decided that Mashiloane remains part of their plans as they look to build a competitive squad ahead of the new PSL season.

Mashiloane’s move to Sekhukhune came after struggling to establish himself as a regular at Orlando Pirates. The right-back faced strong competition for a place in the Buccaneers’ starting eleven, with the likes of Deon Van Rooyen and Kamohelo Sebelebele ahead of him in the pecking order.

The situation became even more challenging after the departure of Thabiso Lebitso, but Mashiloane was unable to fully capitalise on the increased opportunities at Pirates. A loan move was therefore considered the best option to allow him to gain regular playing time and continue his development.

At Sekhukhune United, the defender will now begin a new chapter under Burundian coach Cedric Kaze, who has taken charge of the club ahead of the new season. Mashiloane previously worked with former coaches Eric Tinkler and Paulus Masehe during his first spell at the club.

It was Tinkler who played a key role in bringing Mashiloane to Sekhukhune, having been impressed by the defender’s qualities and style of play. The former coach believed the right-back possessed the attributes needed to succeed at Babina Noko and recommended that the club pursue a deal for his services.

The decision to extend Mashiloane’s loan suggests that Kaze has also been satisfied with what the player offers the team. His defensive discipline, energy, ability to support attacks and understanding of the demands of the position are believed to have convinced the new technical team that he remains an important part of their plans.

For Mashiloane, the continued stay at Sekhukhune provides an opportunity to gain more valuable first-team experience and prove himself in the top flight. Regular football could also help him revive his ambitions of eventually returning to Pirates and competing for a place in their squad.

Sekhukhune United are aiming for another strong campaign in the Betway Premiership and view squad stability as a key factor in achieving their objectives. Retaining Mashiloane is part of their strategy to maintain continuity while allowing new coach Kaze to build a team capable of competing against the league’s top sides.

Babina Noko will begin their new season with a home fixture against newly promoted Durban City in two weeks, and Mashiloane could be in contention to feature as the club starts another campaign with ambitions of success.