Richards Bay release Samkelo Shezi and Mbulelo Nombengula after difficult start

Richards Bay FC have parted company with defender Samkelo Shezi and winger Mbulelo Nombengula midway through the first round of the 2026/27 season, iDiski Times has learnt.

The departures come after a difficult opening to the Betway Premiership campaign for the KwaZulu-Natal club. Richards Bay have yet to win any of their first eight matches, losing five and drawing three.

The Natal Rich Boyz made several additions before the start of the season as they aimed to strengthen their squad and improve on their performances from the previous campaign. However, the club have now ended their association with two players during the early stages of the new season.

Shezi joined Richards Bay at the start of the campaign after leaving Motsepe Foundation Championship side Highbury FC.

The defender made two appearances for Richards Bay. He was also named among the substitutes without being used in five other matches, before being omitted from the matchday squad for the club’s latest fixture.

Nombengula had been contracted to the Jomo Biyela-owned outfit since July 2025, when he arrived from Sinenkani. He was sent on loan to Midlands Wanderers in January this year.

After returning to Richards Bay, Nombengula did not feature for the club in the top flight during the 2026/27 season.

The changes come as Richards Bay attempt to improve their results after failing to register a victory in their opening eight league fixtures.