Richards Bay FC have reportedly parted ways with defender Samkelo Shezi and winger Mbulelo Nombengula midway through the opening round of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.

The departures represent a change in the squad for the KwaZulu-Natal-based club as the Natal Rich Boyz continue their campaign in South Africa's top-flight football competition.

According to a report by iDiski Times, Shezi and Nombengula are both leaving the club, with the former playing as a defender and the latter operating as a winger.

Their exits come during the early stages of the season, a period when clubs often assess their squads and evaluate players' roles as they work towards achieving their campaign objectives.

However, the specific reasons behind Richards Bay's decision to part ways with the two players have not been disclosed in the available information. It also remains unclear whether their departures resulted from mutual agreements, contractual matters or other factors.

The club will now need to assess its available options as it continues competing in the Betway Premiership. Depending on the technical team's plans, the departures could create opportunities for other players to earn more minutes and establish themselves in the squad.

For Shezi and Nombengula, attention will now turn to the next stages of their respective careers and whether they can secure opportunities elsewhere.

At this stage, no confirmed details have been provided about their contractual situations or potential destinations following their reported exits from Richards Bay.

The club has also not released further information explaining the circumstances surrounding the changes.

Richards Bay supporters will be watching for additional updates as the Natal Rich Boyz continue their 2026/27 campaign, with the latest developments signalling changes within the squad during the opening phase of the season.

https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2113517186220535946