Ncikazi officially parted ways with the Buccaneers on Thursday after spending more than five years at the Soweto giants, bringing an end to his tenure as assistant coach under several technical team structures.

His departure came amid reports of tensions with Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, while struggling Arrows moved quickly to secure his services following the dismissal of Pitso Dladla after a five-match winless run.

The Durban-born mentor now returns to familiar surroundings, having previously worked at the club before joining Pirates ahead of the 2021/22 campaign.

Speaking to the club's media on a video posted on X, Ncikazi reflected on the importance of maintaining professional relationships and expressed gratitude to his former employers.

"It is predestination, and sometimes it helps. They say, 'Don't chop down the tree whose shade you might need one day.' I wouldn't have this opportunity if I'm not the person that I am. Hence, I'm still grateful to my previous employers for the words of wisdom," said Ncikazi.

"I'm so grateful to our chairlady [Mato Madlala] for thinking about my name when she needed a coach."

This will be Ncikazi's third stint with Abafana Bes'Thende. He previously served under Manqoba Mngqithi during their 2009/10 MTN8 triumph before working with Clinton Larsen and Steve Komphela.

He also guided Arrows to fourth place in the 2020/21 season, their highest finish in the Premier Soccer League era.

Ncikazi, who will work alongside assistant coach Ashley Makhanya, faces an immediate challenge against Chippa United in the Carling Knockout Cup last 16 at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday.

"I will do my best to try and improve the product," he added.

Assessing his new squad, Ncikazi expressed optimism about the younger players' willingness to learn and improve.

"That gives hope. I'm confident that, with this attitude, we are going to do better. You can't overpromise and underperform," he concluded

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