Orlando Pirates have confirmed the return to action of midfielder Thembinkosi Lorch ahead of the DStv Premiership clash against Lamontville Golden Arrows.
Lorch was given a suspended sentence of three years for the assault of his former girlfriend Fundiswa Nokuphiwa Mathithibala. The 30-year-old was found guilty at the Randburg Magistrate's Court in June.
His three-year suspended sentence was handed down in November and is suspended for five years.
READ | Lorch SUSPENDED by Pirates pending disciplinary hearing
Following the judgment, Pirates suspended Lorch as part of the club's disciplinary process and in a statement published on Wednesday, the Soweto giants confirmed that the midfielder has served his suspension and is eligible for selection.
FULL CLUB STATEMENT:
Lorch appeared before a Disciplinary Committee where he had to recommit to The Pledge.
The Pledge:
At Orlando Pirates, we recognise:
- That women are the base and children the future of our society.
- That violence against women and children is like waging a war on ourselves as a nation.
Therefore, at Orlando Pirates we pledge:
- To be vocal and speak out against violence targeted at women and children.
- To be exemplary through our deeds and serve as role models
- To be supportive to women and children affected by violence.
Like manners once did, violence is now shaping and obsessing our society. If we do not stop it, it will stop us, and our children will have a bleak future.
Throughout his suspension period, Lorch demonstrated accountability for his previous actions and took substantial measures to address them. He willingly participated in a clinical evaluation and has committed to follow any recommended follow-up care.
Furthermore, Lorch has expressed his steadfast dedication to personal growth and is fully cognisant of the repercussions should he falter.
Thembinkosi Lorch has successfully completed his suspension and is now eligible to rejoin club activities, effective today.
Pirates take on Golden Arrows at Mpumalanga Stadium on Sunday. Kick-off is at 15:30.
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