Cedric Kaze defends rotation policy as Luke Baartman waits for Kaizer Chiefs debut

He revealed that promising youngster Luke Baartman may first get game time with the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) team before stepping into the senior fold.

Baartman, along with Ethan Chislett and Nkanyiso Shinga, was absent from the squad that drew with Siwelele FC on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Etiosa Ighodaro earned his first start, with Asanele Velebayi and Lebohang Maboe featuring on the bench.

Kaze, who recently took charge alongside Khalil Ben Youssef, explained that competition for places is fierce within a group of 34 players — and that integration into the team must be managed carefully.

"We have a large squad and a clear process to help players adapt to our structure and style," said Kaze this week.

"Baartman wasn't registered when he first arrived, then he went to the World Cup and missed pre-season. That means he's lost almost two months of work with the team. Players like Velebayi have been with us throughout and understand our demands better. Everyone will get a chance, but you must earn it. If you don't perform, someone else will play," Kaze said.

Asked whether Baartman could regain sharpness in the DDC before joining the senior side, Kaze confirmed it's under consideration.

"Yes, that's something we're looking at. It would help him get rhythm while also strengthening the DDC team," he added.

Chiefs will return to action on Sunday against AS Simba in the CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round second leg at Dobsonville Stadium.