Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi nearing return from injury

Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi is making encouraging progress in his recovery and could soon be available to challenge for a place in Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side.

The 30-year-old Bafana Bafana defender has missed the Buccaneers’ recent matches after suffering a knock during the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final against Sekhukhune United.

Although there is no confirmed timetable for his return, sources close to the situation indicate that Sibisi is responding well to treatment and is not expected to face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Pirates’ medical team confirmed on Saturday that the centre-back was still unavailable for selection as he continued his recovery from the injury sustained in the opening match of the semi-final.

Sibisi subsequently missed the second leg against Sekhukhune United at the Orlando Amstel Arena. Pirates progressed to the MTN8 final after Ouaddou’s team secured their place in the showpiece match.

The defender’s absence has been significant for the Buccaneers. Sibisi has established himself as an important part of the Pirates defence and has also become one of the senior figures in the squad since being appointed captain.

His potential return would give Ouaddou another option at the back as Pirates manage a demanding period of the season. The coach has had to assess his defensive combinations without one of the team’s most experienced centre-backs, while competition for places continues to grow across the squad.

There is still no indication of the precise match in which Sibisi could return, but his progress has raised hopes that he may be back in contention sooner rather than later.

A fit-again captain would provide a further boost to Pirates as they prepare for the next stage of their campaign. His availability would also intensify the battle for places in Ouaddou’s starting line-up, particularly with the team having reached the MTN8 final.

For now, Sibisi remains under the supervision of the Pirates medical team, with the club yet to provide a definitive return date. However, the latest assessment suggests the Bafana Bafana international is recovering positively and could soon resume competition for his position in the side.