Rushwin Dortley ready for Soweto derby after 19-month injury absence

Kaizer Chiefs defender Rushwin Dortley says returning to competitive football ahead of the Soweto derby has given him a major boost as his side prepare to face Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

The 24-year-old centre-back started Tuesday evening’s 3-0 Carling Knockout Cup win over TS Galaxy, marking his first official appearance since 1 March 2025.

Dortley had spent 19 months out of action after undergoing consecutive knee operations. His composed performance against TS Galaxy has raised hopes that he will be involved when Kaizer Chiefs meet their local rivals in one of African football’s biggest fixtures.

“It’s been difficult being off the field for so long. But it feels very, very good being back, being able to help the team, being able to represent the badge again,” Dortley told the club’s media.

“So, being back before the derby, it’s amazing for me. I like playing derbies, and it’s one of the biggest games in football in the world, I think, one of the biggest in Africa.”

The former Cape Town Spurs FC defender also believes the emphatic cup victory has created the right atmosphere within the squad before the meeting with Orlando Pirates.

“The mood is good after the win [against TS Galaxy]. We needed this win before the derby, and the mood is good. It’s just for us to go out there, implement what the coach wants us to do, and just to play to the best of our abilities,” he added.

Chiefs gain defensive depth

Dortley’s return gives head coach Fernando Da Cruz another option in central defence for the Premiership clash. He partnered Thabo Moloisane against TS Galaxy, adding to the choices available to the technical team alongside Inacio Miguel and Zitha Kwinika.

Kaizer Chiefs have also been boosted by the availability of midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu and young forward Wandile Duba. Duba led the attack in the Carling Knockout Cup victory, further strengthening the squad ahead of the derby.

However, Langelihle Phili, Bradley Cross and Renaldo Leaner appear set to miss Sunday’s fixture.

Dortley’s return comes at an important stage for Kaizer Chiefs, who will now assess whether the defender is ready to make another appearance after ending his lengthy spell on the sidelines.