Thopola joined Bucs along with fellow defender Phetso Maphanga earlier this month as part of a swap deal that saw midfielder Thabo Rakhale go to Chippa United.
“I feel ready to take to the pitch in Pirates’ colours, but I know it won’t be easy,” Thopola told Pirates' website.
“I missed a few games in the first half of the season but being here now has energised me and I’m ready to help the club challenge for the league and upcoming Nedbank Cup.
“I’m settling in and adjusting to the club and I must thank my teammates for that. They have welcomed me and that has made it easy to adjust to the new environment. Coach 'Micho' and his technical staff have also been very supportive.”
The mid-table Sea Robbers, who trail log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by eight points after 15 matches, will play their first game of 2018 against Baroka at Orlando Stadium on Saturday night (20h15).
Coach Milutin Sredojevic is boosted by the return from injury of fullbacks Innocent Maela and Mthokozisi Dube, while striker Lyle Foster has also rejoined the squad after featuring for Amajita at the COSAFA U-20 Champs in December.
Midfielders Thabo Qalinge and Thembinkosi Lorch are doubtful with groin and hamstring strains respectively.
