The former Cape Town City and SuperSport United head coach was appointed head coach of Babina Noko in March 2025, replacing Lehlohonolo Seema.
He ultimately secured a fourth-placed finish last season and had continued his side’s good form in the first half of their current campaign before the wheels started coming off in just the past few weeks.
While they picked up all three points in a 1-0 win over bottom-club Magesi on Saturday, it was the club’s first win since seeing off struggling Orbit College back in February.
According to SABC Sport, Paulus Masehe is expected to take charge of the team for the rest of the season.
“Heading into the current campaign, Tinkler had been given a clear mandate to secure a top three finish and deliver silverware from one of the domestic competitions, which is any one of the MTN8, Carling Knockout, or Nedbank Cup.
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“He publicly acknowledged those expectations at the start of the season.
“However, Sekhukhune were unable to secure any trophies, and their league form has been inconsistent in recent weeks,” say the publication.
Sekhukhune’s early exit from the Nedbank Cup at the hands of Motsepe Foundation Championship side Milford, also reportedly contributed to the decision.
“With several of the traditional heavyweights eliminated early from the Nedbank Cup, Sekhukhune appeared well-positioned to challenge for silverware.
“However, their hopes were ended in the quarter-finals by Milford FC, a result that intensified scrutiny on the technical team,” added SABC.
“The club has also recently restructured its football operations, appointing Walter Steenbok as Director of Football Strategy to work alongside Sporting Director McDonald Makubedi.
“Masehe will oversee the team for the remaining fixtures, while assistant coach Mark van Heerden has also been relieved of his duties.”
Tinkler has overseen 38 matches in charge of Sekhuhkune, winning 16 games, drawing 12 and losing 10.