The KZN-born trainer took temporary control of affairs after Riveiro, who guided the Soweto giants to five domestic cups, was given an early release from his contract as he signed off with a 3-0 victory over Golden Arrows in his final match.
With the exit of the Spanish tactician, Ncikazi kept the ship afloat in the last four Betway Premiership matches, managing six out of 12 possible points, with a win and three draws in between.
Now that the curtains have been drawn on the 2024/25 season, the former Arrows coach discloses he is not getting ahead of himself and thinking of taking over the reins of steering the Sea Robbers next season.
There is nothing that is going on in my mind [about the vacant coaching position], it’s blank. I have learned too much here in this club, you don’t learn only as a coach, but also as a human being. They make you a better man, they make you a better human being,” Ncikazi elaborated.
With the position now open, Ncikazi maintains he is not humbled at the prospect of occupying the hot seat at the Mayfair club, alleging he wishes to be a Bucs servant since his destiny is not in his hands, with the hierarchy expected to make key resolutions during the off-season.
“I am not the kind of guy who is searching for opportunities when he arrives at a club. I become a kind of servant, I have to serve this club, and recall when you get chosen here [at Pirates], you have to put your ambitions in the correct place,” he continued.
“You’re here to serve, and when you’re serving, you’re not the one that’s in charge of saying which direction to go; it’s a mission, you go with the mission, because I’m here, it’s a mission. I’ll go wherever I’m told to go and preach the gospel.”.
“And it’s not on me, it’s the appointer who will take the direction. My aspirations, there is nothing on my mind.”
It is yet to be discovered if Ncikazi, who arrived at Pirates in June 2021, will be kept as a member of the technical team or as a sole head coach next season, with the Buccaneers reportedly considering appointing a foreigner who is likely to bring his backroom staff with him.
