In this edition of My Muti Story, we hear from former Kaizer Chiefs player Neil Winstanley on his brushes with the popular cultural practice.
Who and where?
"I experienced muti when I was at Chiefs and a little bit at Sundowns.
"I think the incident that stands out the most is one involving Andre Arendse at Bafana Bafana.
"We were in the national team when a sangoma put a newspaper in Andre's hands.
"The sangoma set the newspaper on fire, and it burned Andre Arendse's hands [laughs].
"It was before the game against DRC. We were in the Bafana squad.
"Imagine someone telling you to hold a burning newspaper. We were all surprised because Andre wanted to drop the newspaper, and they said he shouldn't drop it."
Why were they doing it?
"They said it was going to protect his hands from all the shots. I think the other keeper in the squad was Emille Baron. Andre was just standing there with his hands on fire [laughing]."
Who was the muti man?
"I don't remember. But it was a guy who had dreadlocks. I think he was from one of the West African countries."
What did you have to do?
"I respect everyone's culture, so for me if it's something that you believe in, then you must do it. I will support you.
"We also had pastors from Zion travelling with the team as well. I respect everyone's culture and belief."
Did everyone take part?
"Yes, because we were a team, we all participated.
"But my first muti experience was when the sangoma gave Andre a burning newspaper [laughs]."
What stood out?
"The newspaper, Andre and the sangoma."
What was the result?
"I think DRC won 1-0."