Bathusi Aubaas has rapidly evolved from a reliable National First Division campaigner into one of the most robust defensive midfielders in the country. Now on the books of Mamelodi Sundowns, the hard-tackling dynamo brings physicality and tactical discipline to a star-studded midfield. His journey from the lower leagues to the CAF Champions League stage underscores his immense work ethic and adaptability.
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bathusi Jurry Aubaas |
| Nationality | South Africa |
| Date of Birth | 14 May 1995 |
| Latest Club | Mamelodi Sundowns FC |
| Shirt Number | 15 |
| Position | Defensive Midfielder |
| Market Value | €450k |
Playing Style
Aubaas functions primarily as a ball-winning midfielder who shields the defense, but his utility allows him to slot into the backline when required.
- 🧱 Physicality: Uses his strength and frame to dominate aerial duels and dispossess opponents in the middle of the park.
- 🛡️ Versatility: Capable of operating as a central midfielder, a defensive anchor, or even a centre-back and right-back in emergency situations.
- 🧠 Tactical Discipline: Maintains positional strictness, often staying back to cover advancing full-backs during transition phases.
- 🎯 Long Passing: Possesses the vision to switch play with accurate diagonal balls, helping his team escape high-pressing zones.
Career Highlights
From lifting trophies as a second-tier underdog to competing for continental honors, Aubaas has built a reputation as a big-game player. His rise through the South African football pyramid is defined by resilience and a knack for seizing opportunities against top-tier opposition.
Rise with TS Galaxy
Aubaas became a household name during his spell with TS Galaxy, where he was integral to their historic 2019 Nedbank Cup triumph. Historic achievement. Playing against Kaizer Chiefs in the final, he helped the then-National First Division side secure a shock 1-0 victory, becoming the first second-tier team to win the competition. His performances in the following seasons proved he belonged in the top flight, eventually earning him the club’s captaincy duties on occasion.
As TS Galaxy consolidated their status in the DStv Premiership, Aubaas matured into a complete midfielder. Midfield dominance. He racked up over 100 appearances for the Rockets, showcasing consistent form that eventually attracted the attention of the country’s “Big Three.” His ability to break up play and launch counter-attacks made him one of the most sought-after signatures in the league.
Chapter at Chloorkop
In August 2023, Aubaas secured a major transfer to Mamelodi Sundowns, joining a squad packed with international talent. Elite environment. Despite the fierce competition for places against the likes of Teboho Mokoena, he made his presence felt early, even debuting as a right-back to demonstrate his utility. He quickly adapted to the high demands of the technical team, adding necessary steel to the Brazilians’ artistic midfield.
His time at Sundowns has seen him compete for multiple trophies, including the African Football League and the domestic league title. Squad depth. While injuries have occasionally interrupted his momentum, he remains a vital tactical option for the coaching staff, particularly in CAF Champions League fixtures where physical battles in the midfield are decisive.
| Team (Appea.) | G/A/YC/RC |
|---|---|
| TS Galaxy (128) | 7/2/19/1 |
| Mamelodi Sundowns (35) | 1/3/3/0 |
International Career
Bathusi Aubaas burst onto the international scene with a memorable debut for Bafana Bafana in June 2023. Instant impact. Selected by Hugo Broos for a crucial AFCON qualifier against Morocco, he started in midfield and delivered a composed performance, helping South Africa secure a famous 2-1 victory over the World Cup semi-finalists.
Despite this promising start, his international progress faced a hurdle when a groin injury ruled him out of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations squad. Injury setback. He missed the tournament in Côte d’Ivoire where South Africa claimed a bronze medal, but he remains part of the wider national team pool as they look toward future continental challenges.
| Competition (Stage) | MP (Goal) |
|---|---|
| AFCON Qualifiers (Qualified) | 3 (0) |
| International Friendlies (N/A) | 2 (0) |
Clubs Journey
Aubaas’s career path is a testament to working one’s way up from the dusty pitches of the lower leagues to the manicured greens of the Premiership. Steady progression. Starting at Buya Msuthu, he earned a move to Free State Stars before finding his true home at TS Galaxy, where he spent five formative years.
His transfer to Mamelodi Sundowns marked the culmination of years of consistency. Top tier. Now playing for the undisputed kings of South African football, he has transitioned from a promising talent to an established professional fighting for the biggest honors on the continent.
| Years | Club |
|---|---|
| 2016–2017 | Buya Msuthu |
| 2017–2018 | Free State Stars |
| 2018–2023 | TS Galaxy |
| 2023–Present | Mamelodi Sundowns |