But the Buccaneers are certain of participation in this year's event and a derby between historic rivals Kaizer Chiefs could wipe out those sad memories.

Participation is determined by the votes of the public. Sundowns boasts a massive 67655 votes, Chiefs are second with 47786, Pirates third with 43368, while Limpopo side Black Leopards have so far attracted 36917 votes.

Dynamos, who overtook Pirates in the vote a few days, are now completely out of contention with on only 906 votes.

The closing date for the vote is midnight on Friday, July 23 and the draw of the four clubs with the most votes will be conducted at a media briefing on Monday.

The popular soccer showpiece, which energises the soccer fans' passion, loyalty and enthusiasm will be staged at the FNB Stadium on Saturday, July 31.

But derbies between Pirates and Chiefs always give the paying public their money's worth.

This year's event could clear the dark cloud hovering above local football. Several club officials and top name referees have been arrested in connection with alleged match fixing, corruption and bribery.

This has grossly tainted the image of South African football and could be reason behind the poor votes in the Telkom Charity Cup.

Organisers of the event, which is aimed to help the disadvantaged, expect an improvement on previous years.

Chiefs are the defending champions following their 1-0 victory over Sundowns in last year's competition.

The black and gold outfit will also be looking at redeeming themselves not only for failing to win their Vodacom Challenge Cup semifinal against AS Vita Club of the DR Congo in Mmabatho two weeks ago, which meant they could not play Chiefs in the final of the competition but rather played TP Mazembe, also of the DRC, in the third place play-off last weekend at the FNB Stadium.

Despite beating Mazembe 2-1 in front of of a poor crowd, it is Chiefs the Buccaneers would have liked to played in the final and now another opportunity has presented itself, in the form of the Charity Cup.

Derbies between Pirates and Chiefs have always generated much interest in this event for the past 19 years.

These two most popular South African clubs have always participated in the event since its inception in 1985 - courtesy of the loyalty from their die-hard supporters.

Fans, especially those of Pirates, have shown their desire to see their favourite club make an appearance next week while Chiefs are already there.

Another derby is looming.