As Orlando Pirates prepare to launch their 2025/26 campaign with an MTN8 quarterfinal clash against Polokwane City next Saturday, all eyes are not only on the team’s title defence, but also on who will lead the side out in the absence of long-time skipper Innocent Maela.
The seasoned defender’s contract was not renewed when it expired at the end of June, marking the end of an era for one of the Buccaneers’ most loyal servants.
Read: Pirates & Chickelday: Are Bucs Looking At Former Coach?
Now, speculation is mounting over who will inherit the armband as the Soweto giants usher in a new chapter.
According to insiders close to the club, Nkosinathi Sibisi is widely believed to be the frontrunner to assume the captaincy, at least for now, when Pirates kick off the new season. The former Golden Arrows stalwart has quietly grown in stature since arriving at Orlando, with his consistent performances and no-nonsense defending earning him respect in the dressing room and among the technical team.
While the club has yet to make an official announcement, indications are that Pirates may opt for a leadership committee model this season, especially with Maela’s departure leaving a significant void in experience and continuity.
Under such a system, the captain's armband could rotate among a few senior figures based on form, fitness, and availability throughout the campaign.
Among those understood to be in consideration are Olisa Ndah and Tapelo Xoki, both of whom have worn the armband in Maela’s absence over the past two seasons.
Ndah, when fit, has proven to be a calming presence at the back, while Xoki’s commanding voice and leadership on the pitch have not gone unnoticed.
“Sibisi is the logical choice to take over permanently, but it might not be a straightforward appointment,” a source close to the club revealed. “The coaches are also looking at Ndah and Xoki as part of a leadership group, and it could change depending on who’s playing and available. It’s a long season, and they need flexibility,” the source said.
Interestingly, the club is also believed to be grooming some of its younger talents for future leadership roles.
One name that has surfaced in that regard is Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
The 19-year-old defender has grown in leaps and bounds since being promoted to the senior team, and those within the club’s corridors rate him highly – not just for his versatility, but also for his maturity and work ethic.
“Mbokazi is still young, but he’s got the right attitude,” added the source.
The upcoming clash with Rise and Shine will not only serve as a litmus test for Pirates’ new campaign ambitions but will also offer the first glimpse into how the team plans to navigate life after Maela, starting with who leads them out of the tunnel.
Read: Big Changes At Pirates – More Departures Expected!
With Pirates gunning for silverware on multiple fronts again this season, stability in leadership will be crucial.
Whether the armband rests on Sibisi’s arm or rotates among a trusted group, the Buccaneers know they must rally behind whoever is tasked with steering the ship forward.
Image @Orlando Pirates
