Orlando Pirates expect Mandla Ncikazi to return from injury before MTN8 final

Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi is expected to rejoin the club’s technical team after the current FIFA international break, sources have told BBC Sport.

Ncikazi has been absent from head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s staff for several weeks, missing a number of important matches while recovering from a knee injury.

The former Bafana Bafana assistant coach underwent emergency surgery during pre-season. The procedure has kept him away from the team as he continues his rehabilitation, during which he has been using crutches.

Pirates gave Ncikazi time away from his coaching responsibilities around last month so he could return home to KwaZulu-Natal. He was granted permission to continue his recovery there and receive further medical attention.

The club confirmed his absence from the bench in a statement published on its official website on August 25.

“Assistant Coach Mandla Ncikazi will also be absent from the bench tonight. Having undergone [an] emergency knee surgery during pre-season, Coach Ncikazi has continued to experience discomfort following the procedure.

“The Club has granted him a short period away from his duties to return to KwaZulu-Natal, where he will receive further medical attention and focus on his recovery.”

The FIFA international break has provided Ncikazi with additional time to recover before Pirates resume their campaign.

Sources indicate that he is expected to return to his duties ahead of the club’s next major fixture. If his recovery continues as planned, Ncikazi should be back alongside Ouaddou on the bench when Pirates play Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final on October 10.

During Ncikazi’s absence, Ouaddou has been supported by second assistant Rayaan Jacobs and development coach Mxolisi Mngomezulu, among others, as the coaching staff have managed the team’s preparations and matches.

Ncikazi’s return would restore another experienced member of Ouaddou’s technical team before Pirates face Mamelodi Sundowns in the final. The assistant coach has remained away from matchday duties while completing the recovery process following the knee operation.

For now, Pirates are allowing him to continue his rehabilitation, with the expectation that he will be available again after the international break and in time for the MTN8 final.