Fawaaz Basadien has penned a heartfelt message for his former club, Stellenbosch FC, following his high-profile move to defending league champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Bafana Bafana left back joined Stellies in 2022 from Moroka Swallows and became their first-choice left wingback. He was featured in 111 matches, netted eight goals and provided 18 assists across all competitions for The Maroons.
He was part of the Stellies team that won the Carling Knockout Cup in 2023. He led the team to the semifinals of last season’s CAF Confederations Cup.
His impressive showings have earned him recognition from the national team, where he has been getting call-ups and has been featured twice. He is poised to be in the Bafana squad that will partake in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco this December.
Dear management, coaches, and supporters of the Stellies family
As I bid farewell, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible support, guidance, and encouragement you’ve given me throughout my journey with this team. Your unwavering belief in my potential has been a constant source of motivation, and your dedication has inspired me every step of the way.
To the management, thank you for providing me with the opportunity to grow, evolve, and pursue my passion in a supportive environment. To the coaches, your expertise, patience, and belief in my abilities have shaped me into a better player and human being.
And to the supporters, every second I spent on the pitch, I felt valued, appreciated, and respected. Your cheers, passion, and loyalty have inspired me to create memories that will last forever.
This chapter may be ending, but those memories and lessons will stay with me forever. Though I am moving on to new endeavours, I will always carry a special place in my heart for the Stellies family and everyone who made this journey so meaningful.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am more than convinced that Stellies will continue to shine on the pitch.
Stellies of Niks
With heartfelt appreciation,
Fawaaz.
The 28-year-old joins former teammates Jayden Adams and attacker Iqraam Rayners, who were snapped by the Brazilians earlier. It remains to be seen whether he will make his debut this Sunday when Downs hosts Richards Bay in their opening MTN8 fixture.