South African defender Nkosinathi Sibisi frontrunner for Orlando Pirates captaincy

South African defender Nkosinathi Sibisi is a leading candidate for the Orlando Pirates captaincy role following the departure of Innocent Maela.

Maela’s exit from the Soweto giants have paved the way for the club announce a new skipper ahead of the upcoming 2025/26 football campaign.

Pirates are actively discussing potential candidates to fill the void, with the 29-year-old centre-back emerging as the frontrunner for the leadership role.

The defender has impressed since joining Pirates from Golden Arrows in 2022. His composure and authority in the locker room make him a strong candidate to lead the squad.

However, the Buccaneers are also considering an alternative approach. Rather than relying on a single captain, the club may entrust leadership duties to several experienced players. This model would see the captaincy rotate depending on the situation, players’ fitness, and the starting line-up for each match.

Other contenders include Olisa Ndah and Tapelo Xoki, both of whom have already worn the armband in Maela’s absence. Ndah brings consistency and maturity, backed by international experience, while Xoki stands out for his organizational skills and disciplined play in defense.