Further delays to BTC Premiership start
Staff Writer | Friday August 18, 2017 15:24
However, with the Botswana Football Association (BFA) general assembly held last week, the constitution dictated that the start of the season be scheduled two weeks after the assembly. The BPL has since stated that the season will no longer commence this weekend as initially scheduled.
BPL acting chief executive officer, Thabo Ntshinogang although not specific, said the delay is due to some preparations done behind the scenes. The date for the start of the season has not been decided as yet. BPL recently tied a new deal with the league sponsors, Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTCL) as well as the Top 8 sponsors, Mascom Wireless.
It is rumoured that BPL wants to launch the BTC sponsorship first before the league commences.
Meanwhile, clubs have stepped up their preparations for the new season with Top 8 champions, Jwaneng Galaxy confirming nine new signings this week. Galaxy who finished second in the league last season have snapped up last season’s top goal scorer, Terrence Mandaza who was released by Township Rollers.
Galaxy having lost Thabang Sesinyi to Platinum Stars reinforced their firepower with the arrival of another proven goal poacher, Patrick Kaunda who played for Gilport Lions last season. Ayanda Molefe and Lesego Molemogi reunited with coach, Mike Sithole, joining from Mochudi Centre Chiefs.
Others are Oabile Makopo from Gunners, Tshepo Borake, Wabuya Aebe, Botshelo Mafoko and Moagi Sechele. Galaxy have released several players including Lesego Lubinda who is at Chiefs and Morris Ruzivo who has re-joined Sakoyo Bush Bucks.
Orapa United have snatched Bogosi Kaekwe and Kobamelo Keabikanye from Rollers as well as Tumelo Majola and Tapiwa Nyamanjiva. The likes of Khumoetsile Kufigwa, Nelson Moreetsi and Zebron Ndjovu have been released. Rollers have added Jerome Ramatlhakwana, Kago Monyake, Percy More and Boy Lechaena.
Although they have also signed Tshepo Matete from South Africa and Ivan Ntege from Malawi, their registrations are still pending subject to the issuance of their work permits. The league champions have lost Mandaza, Lawrence Majawa and Kekaetswe Moloi. Moloi has joined Police XI while Majawa crossed to their rivals, Chiefs.
BDF XI have beefed up their goalkeeping department with the arrival of Michael James from Black Forest. They have also signed much-travelled defender, Emmanuel Nlu from Orapa United as well as Rashid Mandawa from Tanzania.