Johannesburg - The secret is out - Orlando Pirates players celebrated their cup win by showering with the trophy.
Seven players from the Nedbank Cup-winning team appear nude in the picture that went viral on social networks.
It shows the players standing naked with their hands cupped over their genitals, laughing and smiling in front of the Nedbank Cup trophy.
One of the players is kissing the top of the trophy.
The nude Buccaneers include Happy Jele, Mpho Makola, Thabo Matlaba and Ntsikelelo Nyauza.
The image was first posted on Thandani “Bibo” Ntshumayel’s Instagram account on Tuesday night and was soon trending on Twitter.
He posted an apology soon after the image went viral.
“At the time I thought it was a joke. Sorry to my teammates… I sincerely apologise… bibo,” he tweeted.
Ntshumayel’s added: “I would like to apologise to everyone - the club, the sponsors and all the people for posting that picture on Instagram…”
Other Pirates players have also expressed their disappointment in the picture being posted.
Aubrey Ngoma tweeted: “I’m glad I’m not in that pic! Unacceptable.”
Fellow teammate Lennox Bacela said: “And then that picture?”
Although some tweeps found it amusing, most Twitter users found the picture distasteful.
“@siya_THATguy tweeted: “I think the worst thing in my life right now is the fact that I can’t unsee that Orlando Pirates picture.”
“@Gaylord50: I think I’m now an Orlando Pirates fan.”
“@St_LukeBV: *SMH* I need to reconsider my supporting of Orlando Pirates hey! These pictures are disturbing.”
“@renew9m: So, boys are having a bit of fun, Is it such a big deal?”
“@Sazi_Speaks: So Orlando Pirates have now ventured into nude shoots, could this be an addition to their marketing or brand, possible calendars for 2015?”
“@1stLadyOfFooty: Orlando Pirates players on how not to celebrate. Do not try this at home. In the dressing room. Or anywhere. Ever.”
“@Ntokozo_Shandu: Someone take away the cellphones from Orlando Pirates players.”
The seven were part of the winning team that beat Wits last Saturday at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
The Star