Former Referee Victor Hlungwani on Unusual Ritual Objects Found on the Field During Pirates-Richards Bay ClashDuring the recent Betway Premiership match between Orlando Pirates and Richards Bay, a peculiar incident caused a brief delay when unfamiliar objects were found at the center circle. Former FIFA referee Victor Hlungwani, known as “The Principal,” has spoken about the incident, revealing that the objects—identified as sati sticks and coins—were used as part of a cleansing ritual. Groundsmen had to use gloves to remove the items, ensuring caution due to their cultural significance and unknown contents.
Hlungwani explained on MetroFM’s Sports Night Amplified that the sati sticks are believed to dispel bad luck, and while he respects cultural practices, he was concerned that the ritual disrupted the match’s timely start. “We appreciate the purpose of the cleansing, but when it delays the game, that’s where issues arise,” he noted, mentioning that even the staff removing the items wore gloves as a precaution.
Reflecting on similar experiences from his career, Hlungwani shared that he’s encountered superstitious practices before, particularly around the technical areas of some teams. He even recounted moments when he felt his movement was hindered, jokingly referring to it as a “speed trap” set by teams like Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs. “In one match, I couldn’t run, and upon investigating, I was told it’s a type of trap,” he remarked, hinting at how rituals and superstition occasionally influence South African football.
