Richards Bay FC have signed 17 new players during the Premier Soccer League transfer window, which closed on Monday night. The Natal Rich Boyz have undertaken a significant squad rebuild as they look to climb from 14th place in the Betway Premiership, where they have three points from seven games.
Key arrivals include Sanele Barns from Stellenbosch FC and Thabani Zuke, who joins as a free agent. The club also secured Siphamandla Gwele from Ravens, Thamsanqa Ndelu from Mkhambathi, and Philani Sithebe from Golden Arrows. Further additions are Khayelihle Mncube from TS Galaxy, Siyabonga Gumede, and Nqaba Xulu from Milford FC. Nhlakanipho Ngcobo and Thandolwethu Dube, who returns from a loan spell, complete the list of new faces.
Departures and context
While focusing on arrivals, the club also confirmed the departure of Sbangani Zulu. This flurry of activity reflects a league-wide trend, with more than 220 new signings made across the PSL as clubs prepared for the 2026/27 campaign. Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants also brought in 17 players each, while Stellenbosch FC made 15 additions.
The overhaul comes at a critical time for Richards Bay, who are seeking their first win of the season. Their recent form shows three consecutive losses, including a 3-2 defeat to Sekhukhune United last week where new signing Nqaba Xulu scored twice. Xulu is already the team's top scorer this season with five goals, a bright spot in a challenging start.
Managerial staff will now work to integrate the new squad ahead of a tough next assignment. Richards Bay host league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns on 17 October. Supporters can track the team's progress and view the full updated squad list on the club's official site, while the upcoming fixtures show a demanding schedule ahead.
More detail at Kick Off
