Richards Bay FC have continued preparations for the 2026/27 campaign by bolstering their squad with three new additions while stepping up their preseason programme ahead of a busy season.
The Natal Rich Boyz have confirmed the arrivals of striker Nqaba Xulu, goalkeeper Nhlakanipho Ngcobo and defender Siyabonga Gumede as they reshape their squad for the upcoming campaign.
The headline signing is striker Nqaba Xulu, who joins the club from Milford FC following his much-talked-about departure from the Motsepe Foundation Championship side. Xulu enjoyed an impressive spell at Milford and will now have the opportunity to test himself in the Betway Premiership as Richards Bay look to strengthen their attacking options.
Richards Bay have also added goalkeeper Nhlakanipho Ngcobo to provide increased competition between the posts, while defender Siyabonga Gumede arrives to reinforce the club’s defensive unit.
As part of their preparations for the new season, Richards Bay have remained in KwaZulu-Natal for their preseason camp. The side has already faced fellow Betway Premiership outfit Golden Arrows and Durban City in a preseason friendly as head coach Ronnie Gabriel continues to assess his squad ahead of the new campaign.
The Natal Rich Boyz will also be among the teams competing in the 2026 KZN Premier’s Cup, where they will take on Durban City in the quarter-finals. The tournament will provide another valuable opportunity for the club to fine-tune combinations and build momentum before the start of the competitive season.
With new signings integrating into the squad and a competitive preseason schedule underway, Richards Bay will be aiming to hit the ground running when they begin their Betway Premiership campaign. The club will also compete in the Carling Knockout and Nedbank Cup, making squad depth and cohesion crucial for the season ahead.
image: Richard’s Bay