Work permits delay foreign players� deals
Staff Writer | Wednesday February 3, 2016 15:41
Although the transfer window closed on Sunday, there are several transfers especially those of foreign players pending.
The transfers according to the Botswana Premier League (BPL) chief executive officer, Bennett Mamelodi, are subject to the issuance of work permits.
“The players have signed contracts with their respective clubs but await being issued with work permits,” he said.
One of the most talked about movements is the return of Terence Mandaza following spells in South Africa and Indonesia. Mandaza signed a one and half-year contract with the Premier League log leaders, Township Rollers. News of his return drew excitement from Rollers supporters after his incredible spell with them before joining Platinum Stars years ago.
His arrival saw Rollers release two other foreign imports; Jerome Louis and Carl Finnigan. Another high profile foreign player awaiting his work permit is former FC Satmos striker, Sadiki Takunda, who has joined BDF XI.
Both BDF XI and Rollers are hoping that their transfers are sorted in time for the two players to be able to play in the Mascom Top 8 semi finals.
Rollers take on Mochudi Centre Chiefs while BDF XI face Orapa United. Rollers currently have one striker, Jerome Ramatlhakwana, following the release of Louis and Finnigan.
Morris Ruzivo, who hogged headlines last season as a defaulter, is also yet to make his debut for his new club, Jwaneng Galaxy after joining last month.
He has since been replaced at Sankoyo Bush Bucks by former Notwane goal poacher, Zebron Njobvu whose move to Sankoyo is also pending.
Sankoyo are also awaiting the completion of tranfer of Kamogelo Matsabu who has been recruited from South Africa. Police XI are also pinning their hopes on the completion of Nqobile Mpala’s transfer from Gilport Lions.
Struggling FC Satmos recruited three Zimbabwean players in January as they attempt to survive relegation. Ntokozo Tshuma, Brighton Choto and Moodley Njeleza have all arrived from Nust FC in Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, Jwaneng Galaxy’s Philani Mabhena and Orapa United player, Olekantse Mambo have been voted Premier League coach and player of the month for January.