The Young Communist League of South Africa yesterday pleaded with the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to postpone this weekend’s round of fixtures to allow players to attend the funeral of Senzo Meyiwa.

Meyiwa, captain of South African side Orlando Pirates and the national team, was shot and killed on Sunday while at his girlfriend’s house.

But with the funeral being held tomorrow morning, many players will be unable to attend due to commitments to their clubs and it is felt that this decision is stopping players and fans the opportunity to mourn.

A statement read: “Senzo was the captain of the senior national soccer team and he has also represented the country at under-17, 20 and 23 level. This means he has played with many players who deserve to mourn his passing away properly. These players should be allowed to attend the funeral and to pay their last respects.

“We plead with the chief executive of the league Mr Brand De Villiers to postpone PSL and both streams (coastal and inland) of the National Football Division matches that were scheduled for this weekend. It is not too late to change the decision and allow the players to mourn this national hero.”