The Telkom Knockout kicks off on the weekend of October, 21, with the final scheduled for 10 December 2011. First-round Telkom Knockout fixtures will be played on the weekend of the 21st October, followed by the quarter finals on 5 and 6 November.

The full draw is as follows:

BidVest Wits vs Amazulu
Platinum Stars vs Kazier Chiefs
Orlando Pirates vs Black Leopards
Jomo Cosmos vs Bloemfontein Celtic
SuperSport United vs Golden Arrows
Moroka Swallows vs Mamelodi Sundowns
Santos vs Maritzburg United
Ajax Cape Town vs Free State Stars

Defending Telkom Knockout Champions, Kaizer Chiefs will start their defence of the coveted trophy against Platinum Stars away from home.

This was revealed at the glamorous launch of the Telkom Knockout at Wanderers Sports Club in Johannesburg today.

Chiefs, who won the tournament back-to-back last season will be hoping to win the trophy a record three times in a row. Amakhosi have won the Telkom Knockout three times since its inception – with the first conquering feat in 2007. Chiefs will keep the current Telkom Knockout trophy as they have won the competitions three times – in 2009 and 2010.

Semi-final action will be on the weekend of 26 and 27 November followed by the grand finale on 10 December 2011.

Last year’s runners up, Orlando Pirates – who lost to Chiefs 3-0 at the FNB Stadium in a match that attracted a record crowd, will face newly promoted Black Leopards.

PSL Chairman, Dr Irvin Khoza said hailed the partnership with Telkom which has been going for years.

Khoza said: “Never in the history of this competition have we had all the 16 coaches. As the league, we are growing from strength to strength. But without the work of the coaches, this competition will not be possible.

”This sponsorship is very significant in many ways. It was a six year deal and I must say it was an extraordinary sponsorship. I want to thank Telkom for their support over the years. We have already sent a letter to start the new negotiations of the sponsorship. Telkom in this country is the genesis and the future of what is happening in broadcast and football. It is because of Telkom that we see football in our screens.

“PSL COO, Cambridge Mokanyane said: “Ever since the inception of the Telkom Knockout in 2006, this tournament has been known for its innovations on and off the field. I believe that this year is no different.

“To Telkom, although contractually we nearing the end of this magnificent relationship, I for one hope that this is not the last Telkom Knockout Tournament. Together we have grown this tournament and your contribution into the beautiful game has been appreciated over the years.”

Telkom Managing Director: Consumer and Retail Manelisa Mavuso added: “We believe in unleashing potential through connectivity so our enduring Man of the Match inducements offer PSL players an opportunity to plough back, reinvest and help unleash the potential of fledgling players.

“This tournament has become known for its vibrancy. We look forward to another festival of football. The connection between us and the fans is important. This competition is about the fans and we are offering the fans plenty of opportunities to get involved.”