Why Knox Mutizwa’s exit leaves Richards Bay FC scrambling

Richards Bay FC are hunting for a new striker after Knox Mutizwa’s abrupt departure in March 2026. The Zimbabwe international joined the Natal Rich Boyz on a free transfer in October 2025 but lasted just seven months before his deal was cut short over off-field issues. League standing: 11th in Premier Soccer League, 34 pts, 7W-13D-10L from 30 games, recent form LDDDD.

Mutizwa made 17 appearances for Richards Bay in the 2025/26 campaign, scoring no goals. His exit leaves the club with a striking void to fill as they chase survival in the Betway Premiership.

How Mutizwa’s Richards Bay exit impacts the club

Mutizwa’s arrival was meant to boost Richards Bay FC’s attack, but his time at the Jomo Biyela-owned club was derailed by discipline problems. Sources cited misconduct off the field as the reason for his early release, despite three unused months remaining on his contract.

The 32-year-old had previously been a goal machine at Abafana Bes’thende, becoming the club’s all-time top scorer with 63 goals and 23 assists in 231 matches. His Richards Bay stint, however, never took off. The club now faces the task of replacing a player who once terrorised defences.

Mutizwa’s next move: Zimbabwe or South Africa?

Mutizwa is a free agent after his Richards Bay exit and has attracted interest from multiple clubs. Triangle United and FC Hunters in Zimbabwe’s topflight are leading the chase, but South African sides in the Betway Premiership and Motsepe Foundation Championship are also in the mix.

Highlanders FC were also linked with the striker before his departure from Richards Bay. Whether he returns to Zimbabwe or stays in South Africa remains unclear, but his goal-scoring pedigree makes him a hot property.

Richards Bay FC’s urgent need for a new striker

With Mutizwa gone, Richards Bay FC need a new striker to steady their attack. Goals this season: 23 scored, 30 conceded (-7 goal difference. The club sits 35 points behind leaders Orlando Pirates in the title race, so every point counts.

Manager Jomo Biyela will be under pressure to secure a replacement who can deliver consistency. The search begins now as the club eyes a late push for survival in the Betway Premiership.