Kaizer Chiefs Address Speculation Over Luke Baartman Featuring in Diski Challenge - Diski 365

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze sparked speculation after comments suggesting the club might consider playing new striker Luke Baartman in the Diski Challenge to gain game time. Baartman's career at Chiefs has faced several obstacles since his transfer from Cape Town Spurs, which was initially disputed. Baartman and fellow signing Asanele Velebayi were challenged by Spurs regarding their free agent status following Spurs' relegation to the ABC Motsepe League. The dispute delayed Baartman's eligibility to play for Chiefs, despite the PSL Dispute Resolution Chamber clearing the players. Spurs then escalated the matter to SAFA Arbitration, further stalling Baartman's debut. Once cleared, Baartman quickly made his mark internationally, being selected for the South African U20 national team that reached the round of 16 at the U20 FIFA World Cup. However, he has yet to feature for Chiefs' first team after returning from a training stint in Chile. Following Chiefs' recent draw against Siwelele, Kaze was asked whether Baartman could be fielded in the Diski Challenge side to build match fitness. He replied that it is something the club is "considering." Despite the comment, sources close to Chiefs management clarified that the club is not planning for Baartman to feature in the reserve team. One senior official reportedly expressed frustration over Kaze's statement, suggesting the coach may have been misunderstood. The speculation may have been influenced by Mamelodi Sundowns' approach of fielding first-team players in the Diski Challenge to maintain match fitness. Players such as Kutlwano Letlhaku, Asekho Tiwani, and Thapelo Maseko are currently featuring for Sundowns' reserve team. Chiefs, however, have no plans to adopt a similar strategy with Baartman. The 19-year-old striker remains a key prospect for the future, and Chiefs appear committed to integrating him carefully into the first-team setup rather than using the Diski Challenge as a development pathway. Fans can expect the club to manage his progression while monitoring his match readiness before a full senior debut.