Carling Black Label general manager Vijay Govindsamy congratulated players from Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs who have been selected to represent South Africa at the Rio Olympic Games.

Abbubaker Mobara, Gift Motupa, Tercious Malepe and Thabiso Kutumela have all be been selected for the South African Olympic squad.

The four will leave with the South African Olympic squad on July 23 and will therefore not be available for selection for the Carling Black Label Champion Cup, reports the Orlando Pirates website.

Govindsamy insists that the SA U23 side will have an exciting experience as they bid for gold at the Rio Olympic games.

‘We would like to congratulate all six players on their selection for the South African squad to fly the country’s flag in Brazil. It is an honour to represent your country on any occasion but the rich history of the Olympic Games makes the pursuit of a gold medal all the more thrilling,’ Govindsamy said.

The general manager understands the disappointment of certain the Buccaneers supports but reassures fans that the young players will be showcasing their talent in the hopes of success in Brazil.

‘We understand that some Pirates fans may be disappointed not to see their heroes in action at the FNB Stadium on July 30 but we at Carling Black Label are fully behind the national side that is heading to South America and see this as a great celebration of these young players’ talent,’ he added.

‘We wish the team everything of the best. We are fully behind their pursuit of the gold medal and look forward to seeing the players back at the Carling Black Label Champion Cup next year.’

Image: Orlando Pirates website