'A decision I don't take lightly': Former Pirates star Ntshumayelo calls time on his career

Former Bafana Bafana, Orlando Pirates and SuperSport United midfielder Thandani Ntshumayelo has announced his retirement from football.

The 33-year-old spent the majority of his career with the Buccaneers, where he played close to 100 matches after joining the club from SuperSport in 2012.

However, 'Bibo' as he is affectionately known, was banned from the game in 2016 after testing positive for cocaine. He ultimately made his return in 2018 but struggled to settle with stints at both Baroka and Swallows.

In a statement released on Thursday, Ntshumayelo, who has two national team caps, decided to call time on his playing days.

The player posted: "After careful consultation and lengthy consultation with my family, I've decided to officially announce my retirement from football with immediate effect.

"It's a decision that I didn't take lightly because football has been part of my life . I feel privileged to have realised my dream of becoming a professional footballer.

"To my SuperSport United family, who gave me my big break to turn professional at the age of 18, I will forever be grateful for everything you have done for me.

"I want to thank SuperSport CEO Stan Matthews, academy coaches Godfrey Mosoetsa, Kwanele Kopo and coach Gavin Hunt who also became a father figure in my life, even in difficult times.

"A special thanks to the academy staff of SuperSport United and the aunties that took good care of us. It was also an honour to represent one of the biggest clubs in Africa, Orlando Pirates.

"It is for this reason that I would like to express my gratitude to Dr Irvin Khoza for giving me the opportunity to represent this big institution. I will forever cherish the moment that I got to wear the Orlando Pirates jersey and fight for