Kekana and the most iconic PSL captains

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has had inspirational captains, who are very successful since 1996.

When looking at the current captains in the Absa Premiership, Hlompho Kekana sticks above the rest.

The veteran midfielder has led Mamelodi Sundowns to several major trophies after being handed the armband in August 2016.

The man nicknamed 'KK' has achieved legendary status at the Tshwane giants where he is also an influential leader.

We take a look at the most iconic and successful captains in PSL history:

Daniel Mudau

Trophies As Captain: 5

The legendary striker led Mamelodi Sundowns during one of the club's most successful periods as they won three successive PSL titles between 1998 and 2000.

Mudau also helped Masandawana clinch the 1999 Rothmans Cup (Telkom Knockout Cup), 1998 Bob Save Supa Bowl (Nedbank Cup) and finish second in the 2001 CAF Champions League.

The former Bafana Bafana marksman literally led from the front with awe-inspiring goals and he remains Sundowns' all-time top goalscorer (with 172 goals) having retired in 2003.

Brian Baloyi

Trophies As Captain: 5

The legendary goalkeeper was a successful Kaizer Chiefs captain having led the Soweto giants during their most successful period since 1996.

Baloyi was very consistent between the sticks during Amakhosi's Operation Vat Alles - winning CAF African Cup Winners' Cup, Coca Cola Cup (Telkom Knockout Cup), BP Top 8 (MTN8) and Vodacom Challenge (unofficial trophy) all in five months in 2001.

The retired shot-stopper, who was noted as penalty specialist, then led Chiefs to the league and cup double (2003 Coca Cola Cup and 2003/04 PSL title), before moving to Mamelodi Sundowns in June 2004.

Hlompho Kekana

Trophies As Captain: 5

The accomplished midfield maestro has enjoyed a lot of success as Mamelodi Sundowns captain after replacing Ramahlwe Mphahlele in August 2016.

Kekana played an instrumental role in helping Masandawana clinch the 2016 Caf Champions League and 2017 Caf Super Cup in his first season as club captain.

KK, who remains a pillar of strength for Sundowns' star-studded midfield, has since led the Chloorkop-based giants to two PSL titles and 2019 Telkom Knockout Cup.

"I have to give credit and a lot of respect to him. Year in and year out, he produces," Benni McCarthy said about KK.

"The kid has not been recognised enough. Four years unbelievable, season back to back. He put in [the work] and how he has not been Player of the Season is beyond me."

Lucky Lekgwathi

Trophies As Captain: 7

The retired defender remains the most decorated captain in the history of the PSL having led Orlando Pirates during their most successful period since 1996.

Lekgwathi led Bucs to six trophies (including two PSL titles) in two back-to-back seasons between 2010 and 2012 making Pirates the only Double Treble champions in the PSL era.

A dynamic leader who scored crucial goals, Lekgwathi also helped Pirates finish second in both Caf Champions League and Caf Confederation Cup, and clinch the 2014 Nedbank Cup.