South African giants Orlando Pirates have confirmed their midfielder Ben Motshwari has sadly tested positive for the novel coronavirus pandemic after undergoing a test a week ago.
Reports indicate the 29 year old hasn’t been feeling too well and was exhibiting some flu-like symptoms which was similar to that of the COVID-19. After checks and everything, it’s been confirmed Motshwari has contracted the disease. He’s currently under two weeks self-isolation in his own house.
Ben Motshwari catching this disease has become the first player in the PSL to be infected and also the second footballer on the African continent after Moroccan Omar Zekri who plies his trade with US Ben Gerdane
However, the South African league has been suspended until further notice and today was the day the country’s Football Federation officials were going to meet with the clubs to discuss the way forwad of the league as to whether they abort or continue playing.
The Buccaneers confirmed the story in the statement below:
“Ben was presented with flu-like symptoms last week and after undergoing tests, his results have come back positive,” read a statement from Bucs on Thursday afternoon.
“The player is asymptomatic and is currently in-home isolation for the next 14 days. He will need to test negative before he is cleared.
“In accordance with relevant protocols, NHI has been notified of the case by the Club.
“The health and wellbeing of our players, officials, and the wider community remains our highest priority in this difficult time.
“The Club has also advised that the player must notify the doctors of all the people that he has been in contact with to ensure that they also get tested.”
By: Iddriss Abdul Rahim