Richards Bay’s long-awaited return to uMhlathuze put on hold

The announcement comes as a blow to fans who were eager to finally watch the Natal Rich Boys play a competitive home game on their original turf. 

The club has cited significant damage to the uMhlathuze playing surface, sustained during last weekend’s KZN Premier’s Cup, which was played under heavy rainfall, as the reason for the switch.

In a statement, the club expressed regret over the change but emphasised the importance of preserving the pitch.

“Following a tough KZN Premier’s Cup contested over rain-sodden days last weekend, the uMhlathuze Stadium playing surface faced significant damage. That has necessitated a change of venue to allow sufficient time for remedial action to be completed,” the club said.

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While the new venue for Saturday’s match is yet to be confirmed, Richards Bay assured supporters that both the City of uMhlathuze and the appointed contractors are working tirelessly to restore the surface in time for their next home fixture – against Chippa United on 26 August.

The club added: “We apologise to our supporters who have been anticipating with excitement to see their heroes in action at home, but we could not allow further damage to the playing surface.”

This season was set to mark a historic return for the club to their traditional home base at the uMhlathuze Sports Complex, previously deemed unfit to host top-flight matches. 

Since their promotion to the DStv Premiership in 2022, Richards Bay have been forced to play their home fixtures at Umlazi’s King Zwelithini Stadium.

The move back to uMhlathuze had been welcomed by both the club and its community, symbolising a new chapter for Richards Bay and their loyal fanbase. 

Now, they’ll have to wait a little longer for that long-awaited homecoming.