Orlando Pirates have confirmed that midfielder Thalente Mbatha will be unavailable for their upcoming DStv Premiership encounter against Richards Bay on Saturday evening.

The Buccaneers will play host to the Natal Rich Boys when the two sides meet at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto, Johannesburg.

However, Mbatha will miss the clash encounter as he serves a one-match suspension after picking up his fourth yellow card for the season.

Pirates also confirmed that Thabiso Lebitso and Deon Hotto will remain on the sidelines with their respective injuries.

Orlando Pirates have released the following statement on the matter, which reads as follows:

Having opted for continuity over the past few weeks, Pirates have been forced into a change in midfield with Thalente Mbatha unavailable for the match against Richards Bay.

The 24-year-old was cautioned in midweek, earning himself a one-match suspension having picked up three other bookings during the ongoing campaign.

Also ruled out of the clash is the injured Thabiso Lebitso, while Deon Hotto could also remain sidelined after picking up a knock over the weekend.

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