Johannesburg - Orlando Pirates have confirmed the capture of Siyabonga Sangweni from Golden Arrows as they bolster their treble-winning defence.

The Bucanneers have transferred striker Katlego Mashego and midfielder Gert Schalkwyk to Arrows as part of the deal for the 29-year-old Bafana Bafana defender.

Club chairman Dr Irvin Khoza told the club's official website: "Siyabonga Sangweni is one of the great defensive prospects in the league and is already a Bafana Bafana international.

"I am sure he will prove a valuable addition to the squad. The squad now has a more experienced look to it that will hopefully serve us well for the rest of this season and going forward."

A statement added further:

Sangweni was born on October 29, 1981 in Empangeni and began his career with Nathi Lions, before he moved to Golden Arrows in 2005 where he made over 150 appearances.

Sangweni, is an experienced campaigner of six seasons in the Premier Soccer League and has been capped fourteen times so far by the South African national team. The latest appearance was in the 2012 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Egypt, where he played alongside new club colleagues Andile Jali and Tlou Segolela - the match ended 0-0.

The 1.82 meter defender, who is renowned for his hard tackling is a strong, explosive and versatile player who has excellent aerial abilities.

Sangweni, who made his Bafana Bafana debut against Malawi in 2007 (26 May), has been a regular in under coach Pitso Mosimane. Ntsimbi as he is affectionately known, scored his debut goal against Bulgaria on 24 May 2010.