Jali gets a high-five in PSL awards nomination list dominated by Sundowns

SPORT

The 11 categories are dominated by the league champions.

The 32-year-old could walk away with the footballer of the season; DStv Premiership players’ player of the season; DStv Premiership midfielder of the season; MTN8 last man standing; and? Nedbank Cup player of the tournament awards.

In four of the categories, Jali will face off against team-mates Peter Shalulile (in three) and Themba Zwane (in two).

The virtual awards ceremony will be held on May 29 and will be shown live on SuperSport (DStv channel 202) and on SABC.

It has been a remarkable season for Jali, who has featured in 39 matches in all competitions so far this season.

READ: Hugo Broos at peace with leaving in-form Andile Jali out of Bafana Bafana squad

Since the departure of Hlompho Kekana from Sundowns last season, Jali has been a central figure in central midfield for the Brazilians thanks to his defensive and offensive qualities. His role as a combative player has also seen him taking a centre-back role during games, as cover when the Sundowns’ fullbacks are on the overlap.

Jali’s massive contribution is the reason Sundowns – who have already clinched the league and MTN8 titles – are chasing a treble this season.

The Tshwane powerhouse will face Marumo Gallants in the Nedbank Cup final next Saturday (May 28).

There have also been calls for Jali to be included in the Bafana Bafana squad. But the athlete from Matatiele in the Eastern Cape has almost resigned from being called up by Bafana coach Hugo Broos if the media-shy player’s recent radio interview on Marawa Sports Worldwide is anything to go by.

He, however, got a different assessment from the premiership coaches as they were the ones who nominated and voted for the footballer of the season, while his peers forwarded his name for the players’ player gong.

Daniel Mothowagae  Deputy sports editor +27 11 713 9001 Daniel.Mothowagae@citypress.co.za www.citypress.co.za 69 Kingsway Rd, Auckland Park