Jali could face jail time … unlikely for now

Andile Jali returned to South Africa in May after parting ways with Belgian outfit KV Oostende.

Initially, in 2017, the Siya crew revealed that the Bafana Bafana international would be returning to the PSL and, although the player’s camp denied the news at the time, he landed up back at home.

His return to Mzansi raised a few eyebrows, with some individuals questioning the decision. As one of South Africa’s most gifted players, it was suggested that the midfielder still had what it takes to carry on playing in Europe. Mzansi’s football fans, however, were excited at the prospect of Jali returning to the PSL. Having left for Europe in 2014 as an Orlando Pirates star, he remained a household name back home.

On his return to South Africa, he was linked with all of the so-called Big Three, in Kaizer Chiefs, Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns. His next move, however, was momentarily eclipsed by his run-in with the law.

In May, a high profile player had been arrested for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol. At the time, it was suggested that Jali was the alleged player in question, though the Matatiele-born star denied any involvement. Back in May, Jali distanced himself from the report. When a follower on Twitter asked if it was him that had been arrested, Jali replied, “It’s not me please guys.”

Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) spokesman Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba has since confirmed that the player arrested was Jali and that the 28-year-old player is still facing the charge and will be appearing in court.

Mahamba recently told the Siya crew, “Yes, I can confirm that the player that was arrested (back in May) was Andile Jali. At the time, I could not reveal his identity, as he had not been charged with drunk and driving. He was then charged, and we now can reveal his name.

“He will still face trial, where he will be formally charged. That is still the plan, yes. As I told you before, we give the laboratories up to one year to get the blood samples processed.”

It’s not the only incident that the talented midfielder is facing and dealing with. While it has been reported that Jali is facing possible expulsion over drinking problems, having reportedly failed three pre- training breathalyser tests at Sundowns, he is also expected back in court on December 5, 2018 - subsequent to his latest arrest.

Gauteng Provincial Spokesperson for the South African Police Service (SAPS), Lieutenant Colonel Lungelo Dlamini, confirmed on Tuesday, October 30, that Jali had been arrested and would be in court after being charged for as- sault and malicious damage to property. The National Prosecuting Authority in Gauteng went on to confirm the legal proceedings. In a statement by the NPA, it was confirmed that Jali had been released on bail of R1 500. “Andile Jali, the footballer from Mamelodi Sundowns club, appeared in Hatfield court today (October 30). He was arrested yesterday after a feud with his wife,” read the NPA’s statement, in part. “I have preferred the charges of intimidation against the accused (section 72(1) (b) after consultation with Adv. Nel and agreeing that assault will not stand,” read the statement. “He is alleged to have had come home late, started to shout at the wife who decided to go and sleep in the car to avoid him. He has been released on R1500 bail with conditions that he not return to the marital home. The investigating officer had already confirmed the alternative address. The case has been postponed to 5 December 2018 for further investigations. The witnesses’ statements are outstanding,” concluded the statement.

Jali’s ability on the field has never been under question. He returned to South Africa and joined Sundowns as the club’s marquee signing, and as one of the PSL highest earners, ahead of the 2018/19 season. With reports that he is cashing in on a deal worth around R8 million per annum, it has been reported that he had put pen to paper on a five-year deal with the Chloorkop-based side.

The 28-year-old is under contract with Downs, and in light of Jali facing two separate court cases, the Siya crew investigated what the future holds for the player.

From a legal stance, based on South Africa’s sentencing guidelines, what are the permutations, and how could this affect Jali’s contract - a deal that could be worth up to R40 million over the five-year period?

Mamelodi Sundowns have not released a statement on Jali’s arrest and subsequent bail, with two court cases pending. Despite several attempts to get comment from the club, on Jali’s run-in with the law, Sundowns have remained silent.

In addition, Jali has not released a statement either, as he continues to play for the Brazilians, though was stretchered off during last weekend’s clash against Orlando Pirates, owing to a hamstring injury.

Siya crew contacted the NPA for an update on Jali, however an update was not available at the time of going to print.