Chiefs replace Pirates in Maize Cup tournament

Rollers have fresh go at one-day title

Kaizer Chiefs have replaced their Soweto rivals Orlando Pirates in this year’s edition of the Bokone Bophirima Maize Cup.

The one-day pre-season competition will be played at the James Motlatsi Stadium in Orkney on July 15.

North West MEC for education and sports development, Sello Lehari confirmed Pirates’ unavailability for this year.

“Pirates were not available when we invited them,” he stated after the four-team tournament was officially launched in Klerksdorp, North West, yesterday.

“North West is a great sporting destination and we are good hosts. Before, we used to see these tournaments in Gauteng. We are happy to host two tournaments [at the same time] with Cosafa Cup at Moruleng and Royal Bafokeng stadiums as well.”

The third edition of the Maize Cup features last year’s runners-up Platinum Stars, Free State Stars, Chiefs and Botswana side Township Rollers, who will make their second appearance after participating in 2015.

Soccer legends Aaron Mokoena, Fabian McCarthy and Phil Masinga were in attendance as the tournament’s ambassadors.

The champions of the preseason competition only take home a trophy with no prize money.

Tickets are available at Computicket and Shoprite Checkers at R40 for adults and R10 for children.

Fixtures:

Plat Stars v FS Stars (10am) Chiefs v Rollers (noon)

The final is at 4pm on the same day.