Maela who received a red card during the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs on the 25th of February 2023 has been out of action for two matches including the recent 2-1 victory against Venda Football Academy in the Nedbank Cup last 16.

After also picking up a slight injury in the Soweto Derby, Maela has resumed training and will be expected to lead Pirates against SuperSport on Saturday.

Maela's return also marks the return of another important defender in the Pirates camp as Olisa Ndah has also resumed training and should be available for selection on Saturday.

With the encounter against SuperSport United being a clash of the titans encounter, Pirates will be hoping to get the all important maximum points as the race is still on for a top 2 finish in the league.

SuperSport United is currently occupying the second spot in the league and a victory for them will see Gavin Hunt's men stretch their lead in the top 2 race to 8 points.

Both sides head into the encounter with Pirates having advanced to the quarter-finals of the Nedbank Cup where they will meet Dondol Stars while Matsatsantsa a Pitori head into the clash at the back of two consecutive victories in the DSTV Premiership.

Kick-off at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday is at 18:00.