Meet Orlando Pirates’ New Captain: Sibisi Takes the Armband as New Era Begins

A changing of the guard at Mayfair as the Buccaneers prepare for battle

With the dust still settling after the departure of long-serving captain Innocent Maela, Orlando Pirates have wasted no time ushering in a new chapter. As the 2025/26 season kicks off, 29-year-old centre-back Nkosinathi Sibisi has been named the club’s new captain, a move that signals both stability and ambition as the Soweto giants eye silverware under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Joining Sibisi in the leadership circle are Tapelo Xoki, a seasoned defender at 30, and rising teenage star Mbekezeli Mbokazi, just 19, who have been named as vice-captains. Together, this trio bridges experience and youth, a blend that may prove vital as Pirates gear up for their MTN8 quarter-final clash against Polokwane City this weekend.

Why Sibisi?

Sibisi’s appointment is more than ceremonial. Since joining Pirates from Golden Arrows in 2022, he has quietly cemented himself as a defensive rock. His efforts were recognised this week when he was crowned Betway Premiership Defender of the Season at the 2025 PSL Awards.

“It is truly an honour and privilege to be named captain of this great institution,” Sibisi said via the club’s official channels. “It’s a responsibility that I accept, and I promise to fulfil the role in the best way I possibly can.”

His words reflect the respect he commands in the dressing room and the faith coach Ouaddou appears to have placed in him during the club’s recent pre-season camp in Spain. That trip wasn’t just about fitness; it was an assessment of character, leadership, and who’s ready to carry the weight of the badge.

A Strategic Move from Ouaddou

This leadership shake-up marks Ouaddou’s first major structural decision since stepping in as head coach. The Moroccan tactician inherits a squad with talent but also with something to prove. The Buccaneers came close last season but couldn’t topple rivals Mamelodi Sundowns, who have been the benchmark in local football.

By appointing a captain with both calm authority and recent accolades, Ouaddou seems to be signalling a fresh but measured approach, one that values internal growth as much as star signings.

The Young Gun: Who is Mbokazi?

While Xoki’s vice-captaincy is no surprise given his age and presence, the inclusion of Mbekezeli Mbokazi raised eyebrows, in a good way.

Mbokazi, just 19, has already turned heads with his performances and was named Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player of the Tournament at the PSL Awards. His rapid rise has made him a fan favourite, and this vice-captaincy nod suggests that the club sees him as more than just a prodigy; they see him as a leader in the making.

Social media has been buzzing with praise for the youngster. One fan on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Mbokazi at 19 wearing the vice-captain band? Generational talent!”

What This Means for the Season Ahead

With new leadership comes new energy. The Pirates are entering the 2025/26 season with a renewed sense of purpose and direction. The blend of Sibisi’s calm confidence, Xoki’s veteran presence, and Mbokazi’s youthful fearlessness could be the X-factor the team needs to finally dethrone Sundowns.

And with the MTN8 around the corner, all eyes will be on whether this new trio can deliver where it matters, on the pitch, under pressure.

This isn’t just about armbands; it’s about identity. Pirates are building something and doing it their way. In the wake of Maela’s exit, the club could have looked elsewhere. Instead, they’ve turned inward, chosen leaders from within, and shown that belief runs deep at Mayfair.

Whether this new era brings trophies remains to be seen. But what’s certain is that the Buccaneers are ready to fight, and they’ve picked their generals.

Also read: The 2025 South African Premiership Transfer Window: Big Moves and Drama in the Transfer Market

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Source: SABC Sport

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