Stellenbosch FC strengthen squad with signing of defender Surprise Nhlabathi

Stellenbosch FC have announced the signing of defender Surprise Nhlabathi from Baroka FC as preparations for the new season continue under head coach Gavin Hunt.

The 22-year-old arrives after spending the last two seasons with Baroka, where he featured regularly despite the club’s relegation from the Motsepe Foundation Championship at the end of the previous campaign.

During his time with the Limpopo outfit, Nhlabathi made 37 appearances, including 32 starts, establishing himself as a dependable figure in the team’s backline.

Speaking after completing the move, the young defender expressed his excitement about joining Stellenbosch, describing the transfer as the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.

“It’s a great pleasure to be at Stellenbosch FC,” Nhlabathi said.

“Stellenbosch is a team of a high calibre, and I’ve been following the club for many years. It’s been a goal of mine to play here, and I’m happy to now have that chance.

“I’m here to fight for the badge. I will do my best in every game to help this club win matches, compete in every competition that we play in, and ultimately achieve our goals.

“We have everything we need here to achieve that. The facilities and infrastructure are world-class, and we have coaches who are honest and will give you the chance. It’s a great environment to play in, and I can’t wait for the new season to start.”

Nhlabathi becomes Stellenbosch’s seventh signing of the transfer window as the club continues to reshape its squad ahead of the upcoming campaign.