Pirates name squad for Challenge
Orlando Pirates have named their squad for the 2011 Vodacom Challenge, including a number of their exciting new signings.
Coach Julio Leal has named 34 players for the pre-season tournament that will see The Buccaneers face Tottenham Hotspur in Mbombela (July 19) and Kaizer Chiefs in Port Elizabeth (July 21).
Pending the outcome of their clash with Amakhosi at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, they will face Tottenham Hotspur in the final at Coca-Cola Park in Johannesburg on July 23.
Previously injured stars Daine Klate, Moeneeb Josephs, Lucas Thwala and Benson Mhlongo have all been included in the group, as well as new signings Rudolf Bester, Sameehg Doutie and Siyabonga Sangweni.
Mhlongo returns after almost two years on the sidelines with a knee problem, while Thwala did not play at all last season after he too suffered a knee injury.
FULL SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Moeneeb Josephs, Senzo Meyiwa, Brighton Mhlongo.
Defenders: Reuben Cloete, Happy Jele, Robyn Johannes, Lucky Lekgwathi, Rooi Mahamutsa, Lizo Mjempu, Vusi Mthimkulu, Sibusiso Mxoyana, Njabula Ntusi, Siyabonga Sangweni, Lucas Thwala.
Midfielders: Isaac Chansa, Sameehg Doutie, Andile Jali, Daine Klate, Dikgang Mabalane, Oupa Manyisa, Mark Mayambela, Benson Mhlongo, Phenyo Mongala, Clifford Ngobeni, Thabang Rammutsoe, Tlou Segolela.
Strikers: Rudolf Bester, David Fakude, Ndumiso Mabena, Patrick Malokase, Thulasizwe Mbuyane, Chiukepo Msowoya, Bongani Ndulula, Siphelele Mthembu.