Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha has clapped back at rumours regarding his availability for the Soweto giants.
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Read: Mbatha's Crucial Pirates Update
The story
Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha has addressed and denied a false rumour surrounding his availability for the Soweto giants, refuting claims made by a Twitter/X user that he is facing suspension.
The rumour, which surfaced on Monday night via Twitter/X user @IamMastarmind, suggested that Mbatha might not be available for selection due to arriving at training under the influence of alcohol.
A Siya Crew source had already confirmed that Mbatha's unavailability of late is down to injury and that he's been training in preparation for Pirates' away league fixture against Golden Arrows in Hammarsdale.
Mbatha, who joined Orlando Pirates in 2024, has been sidelined for the last two matches against Mamelodi Sundowns and Baroka FC due to an injury sustained in a Betway Premiership game against Sekhukhune United two weeks ago.
Breathalyzer becomes the order of the day as Thalente Mbatha arrives at Training Drunk
— Mastarmind (Vuka S'khulume) (@IamMastarmind) February 17, 2025
Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha's arrival at training in a drunken state has sparked a new era of discipline at the club. The 24-year-old player stumbled onto the training field,… pic.twitter.com/lltXpMkrR2
However, the young midfielder took to Instagram to put the speculation to rest and clear up any sort of misunderstanding.
In his response, Mbatha took to Instagram Live to address his supporters directly, dismissing the rumour. He stated:
"They said I'm not training, eish. You're listening to everything. I just came back from training. This thing of me being suspended, I don't know anything about that. People can say whatever about me, but I'm coming from training.
"You guys will see me tomorrow [against Golden Arrows], I guess the person who said this knows better; maybe he's the ones who hired me. He's the owner," says Mbatha sarcastically while blasting DJ Khaled's "Wild Thoughts" in his car.
Watch below:
Orlando Pirates player Thalente Mbatha has a message for you,chief.
— Bayanda Nhlakanipho Xaba (@BayaXabzin) February 18, 2025
Cc: @ThalenteMbatha_ https://t.co/G1xnUwlOFG pic.twitter.com/pLANMP372y
Read: Vilakazi Goes Viral For Kasi Flava Skills
In the current campaign, Mbatha has been a key player for the Buccaneers, featuring in 24 games across all competitions.
The Durban-born baller has scored four goals and provided one assist, earning him a place in the Bafana Bafana squad. He also made an impact during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers last year.
Here's more footage of his IG live:
Thalente Mbatha Cleared the rumours ??
— Maestro (@ManAnnonym) February 18, 2025
And he is ready for Tomorrow's game against Golden Arrows.#OrlandoPirates pic.twitter.com/7uocVtesDB
