Orlando Pirates defender Nkosinathi Sibisi declares readiness to face Stellenbosch in MTN8 final - 'It's good to be back'

Orlando Pirates have received yet another positive update after defender Nkosinathi Sibisi revealed he has recovered and is ready to play again.

Sibisi's update comes just days before the Soweto giants engage their Premier Soccer League opponents, Stellenbosch, in the final of the domestic tournament.

To reach the final, Bucs had to sweat against Mamelodi Sundowns in a two-legged semi-final showdown, which the Buccaneers won on post-match penalties. Sibisi was not involved, as he was sidelined, but could feature in the final.

"It's good to be back. It's never easy when you are injured. In terms of being ready for selection, yes, I am ready for selection. I have been training with the guys, so it's good to be back," Sibisi told the media.

“It’s always special to lift a trophy. Lifting it for the fourth time will be special, not only for the club and the players but for the supporters as well," he added.

"There will be no pressure on me personally – I’ve already won five trophies with the club; this is not about me but about the group. Every final is special, and hopefully this one will be memorable for all the players and the club.”

Sibisi also had a positive assessment of his teammate, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who has been a rock in Pirates and Bafana Bafana's defence.

"With Mbokazi captaining the team, I think he did a fantastic job," Sibisi added.

"For him to lead such a big institution at his young age and to do the things he has been doing for Orlando Pirates and the national team, it can only get better from here. I say kudos to him," he concluded. 

Sibisi's readiness is yet another boost for head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who revealed that his star attacking midfielder, Patrick Maswangayi, has also recovered.

The centre-back has not played for Pirates since August, but his return coincides with a big game coming over the weekend.

The Sea Robbers are the defending champions and will be eager to win it again and make history by becoming the first team to win four back-to-back MTN8 trophies.

Bucs and Stellies will clash at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday.

This is a repeat of last season's final, where the finalists met and Bucs outclassed the Maroons for their third straight MTN8 cup.