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Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below<ul><li>Lorch was convicted of GBV in November</li><li>He was suspended by Pirates</li><li>But he is now back in training</li></ul><script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script>

Orlando Pirates issue Lorch update as midfielder returns to training and makes GBV pledge

Premier Soccer League

Orlando Pirates

SuperSport United

AmaZulu FC

Lamontville Golden Arrows

<a href="https://www.goal.com/en-za/lists/psl-heavyweights-orlando-pirates-have-suspended-midfielder-thembinkosi-lorch-following-his-conviction-by-the-randburg-magistrate-s-court/blt41eb75020621e31a#csdfbe7eb66312ad95" target="_blank">Lorch was suspended by the Buccaneers</a> on November 22 after he was sentenced by the Randburg Magistrate's Court for gender-based violence.In June the same court found him guilty of assaulting his former girlfriend. After several delays the court<a href="https://www.goal.com/en-za/lists/thembinkosi-lorch-assault-case-court-fines-orlando-pirates-star-on-top-of-a-five-year-suspended-jail-sentence/blt552e9ad0afe51e8c" target="_blank"> sentenced him to a five-year suspended jail sentence plus a R100,000 fine</a> last month.But he is now back at training, having last featured in a competitive match on November 11 during the Soweto Derby showdown against Kaizer Chiefs.In Lorch's absence, Pirates played three <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-za/psl/yv73ms6v1995b5wny16jcfi3" target="_blank">Premier Soccer League</a> matches, winning two and sharing spoils once.

WHAT HAPPENED?

"Throughout his suspension period, Lorch demonstrated accountability for his previous actions and took substantial measures to address them," read <a href="https://www.orlandopiratesfc.com/lorch-returns-suspension.html" target="_blank">a Pirates statement</a>."He willingly participated in a clinical evaluation and has committed to follow any recommended follow-up care. Furthermore, Lorch has expressed his steadfast dedication to personal growth and is fully cognisant of the repercussions should he falter. "Thembinkosi Lorch has successfully completed his suspension and is now eligible to rejoin club activities, effective today."

WHAT PIRATES SAID

The Buccaneers published a pledge to be committed to by all associated with the club and Lorch promised to adhere to it:At Orlando Pirates, we recognise:<ul><li>That women are the base and children the future of our society.</li><li>That violence against women and children is like waging a war on ourselves as a nation.</li></ul>Therefore, at Orlando Pirates we pledge:<ul><li>To be vocal and speak out against violence targeted at women and children.</li><li>To be exemplary through our deeds and serve as role models.</li><li>To be supportive to women and children affected by violence.</li></ul>

THE PIRATES PLEDGE MADE BY LORCH

The return of Lorch is a major boost for Pirates coach Jose Riveiro whose selection options have now been widened. That means more competition with the likes of Patrick Maswanganyi, Karim Kimvuidi, Vincent Pule, Relebohile Mofokeng and <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-za/lists/what-has-gone-wrong-with-orlando-pirates-saleng-this-season-buccaneers-legend-gwabeni-lists-reasons-behind-the-winger-s-loss-of-form/blt37afafeae0a2ba85" target="_blank">Monnapule Saleng who is now being benched</a>.The healthy competition for places in the team comes at a time when the Buccaneers have entered a critical phase of their season as they try to close the gap between them and log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns in the PSL title race.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Lorch could make a return when Pirates visit Golden Arrows for Sunday's Premier Soccer League clash.But the chances of seeing the attacker play largely depend on his fitness after spending time away from his teammates at the training ground.

WHAT NEXT FOR LORCH?

Orlando Pirates issue Lorch update as midfielder returns to training and makes GBV pledge | Goal.com

Premier Soccer League giants Orlando Pirates have confirmed Thembinkosi Lorch has resumed first team activities after serving his suspension. 

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