New Orlando Pirates midfielder Gert Schalkwyk is set to make his first appearance when 'Bucs' take on his former team Kaizer Chiefs in the second semifinal of the Telkom Charity Cup on Saturday.

Schalkwyk, who missed the Vodacom Challenge due to injury, has fully recovered from his hamstring strain.

"It has been a stressful time for me, sitting on the side lines while my teammates were involved in the Vodacom Challenge. Everyone had an opportunity to show the coach what they could offer during that event," Schalkwyk told the official Pirates website.

He added: "However, having said that I want to thank the coach for his support and also to allow me the opportunity to heal properly without rushing me back to action.

"I have been working very hard with the physiotherapist since I here and I am now fully fit and ready to play. I am hungry for action; maybe a run against Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday is all what I need to kick-start my career in Pirates colours."

Schalkwyk said he did not hold any grudges against Chiefs.

"But it will be nice to make my Pirates debut against my former teammates and hopefully put one against them.

"Obviously, I am expecting a load of pressure, but I am not worried at all, I will appreciate every minute that the coach provides me against them. Look, the other new guys introduced themselves in style to the supporters in the Vodacom Challenge tourney, now it?s my turn and there is no better way to do it than on Saturday," explained Schalkwyk.

"I also want to use this opportunity to show the coach what I can do for the club in the new season," concluded Schalkwyk.