Why Cedric Kaze was kept away from Sekhukhune United players

Cedric Kaze was not allowed to approach Sekhukhune United’s players at half-time during their MTN8 semi-final against Orlando Pirates because of the rules governing suspended technical officials.

The Sekhukhune United head coach had been sent off after an off-the-pitch incident with fourth official Akhona Makalima during his team’s 2-0 Betway Premiership defeat by Orlando Pirates in midweek. That dismissal triggered a two-match suspension.

Questions were raised before the second leg about whether Kaze would still be permitted to speak to his players during the interval, despite being banned from the touchline. The former Kaizer Chiefs co-coach was seen taking a seat among Sekhukhune United’s analysis staff in the commentary area shortly before kick-off.

However, he remained in that position throughout half-time and made no attempt to move closer to the team. He also showed little emotion during the match, with this writer sitting nearby.

Sekhukhune United, who are also known as Babina Noko, eventually lost the second leg 3-0. Orlando Pirates secured a 4-0 aggregate victory and progressed to their fifth consecutive MTN8 final.

The restrictions on Kaze’s movements are set out in the PSL’s NSL Handbook. The regulations state that suspended players and technical team members may attend matches, but they cannot go near the tunnel or enter the perimeter demarcation area during the game or half-time team talks.

Article 53.1, which deals with dismissals, states: “A player dismissed by the referee (i.e. red-carded or sent off, including dismissed as a result of two yellow cards given in the same match) will, for the first occasion in a Season, be suspended from participation in the next two matches to be played by his team in any Competition under the auspices of the League.”

The same provision applies to technical officials. Article 53.6 says: “This Rule also applies to Member Club Officials who are dismissed by the referee. When under suspension Member Club Officials may not enter the perimeter demarcation or the tunnel.”

Sekhukhune United were therefore following the regulations by keeping Kaze away from the players’ route and dressing-room area during the semi-final.

His suspension will continue into Saturday’s Betway Premiership fixture against TS Galaxy. Kaze will have to watch that match from the stands when Sekhukhune United host TS Galaxy at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium.

It will be the second and final match of his two-game suspension, meaning he will again be unable to become physically involved with his players on the day.