There was rife speculation throughout the week that Germinal Beerschot captain Aaron Mokoena would be handed the captain's armband but Bafana coach Shakes Mashaba opted for locally-based Baloyi, with 17 caps under his belt.

Orlando Pirates captain Mbulelo Mabizela will deputy captain on the day.

Baloyi's appointment will automatically earn him a starting line-up place ahead of the in-form and Ajax Cape Town rising star Moeneeb Josephs.

"It is a great honour captaining one's country and with it comes the responsibility which I enjoy," said Baloyi. "Andre and I have always been the best of friends and I have a big pair of boots to fill, as he was an inspirational skipper."

"Whether it is just for this game or for more games does not matter. Being captain of my country is the big prize for me," said Baloyi.