Sanele Barns completes deadline-day homecoming to Richards Bay

Richards Bay FC have pulled off one of the most significant deals of the January transfer window, confirming the return of talismanic midfielder Sanele Barns just hours before the 2026 PSL January transfer window deadline.

In a move that will bolster Richards Bay’s attacking options, the 28-year-old returns to the uMhlathuze Sports Complex on a permanent deal. The transfer sees Barns escape a frustrating spell in the Western Cape to reunite with the KZN side.

Barns’ move to Stellenbosch FC at the start of the 2024/25 season was initially a masterstroke. He was a vital cog in the side that reached back-to-back MTN8 finals and flourished under former coach Steve Barker.

However, the winds of change at the Winelands proved cold for the midfielder. Following the arrival of veteran tactician Gavin Hunt, Barns found himself on the periphery, managing only a handful of appearances this term. With Stellies currently languishing in a disappointing 12th place on the log, Hunt has opted to reshuffle his deck, clearing the way for Barns’ emotional return to KZN.

The ‘Rich Boyz’ heartbeat – Sanele Barns

Before his departure, Barns was the undisputed engine of the Richards Bay attack. His stats speak for themselves: 62 appearances, 10 goals, and 11 assists after joining from AmaTuks in 2022. His form in the 2023/24 season was so prolific it earned him a nomination for the PSL Midfielder of the Season.

Now, he joins a Richards Bay side under the tutelage of Ronnie Gabriel that is desperately seeking a creative spark. Despite sitting in a respectable 9th place, the club has struggled for goals, finding the net only 12 times in 15 outings.

Derby Day Debut?

Barns becomes the club’s third January signing, following the arrivals of defensive stalwart Thembela Sikhakhane and striker Joel Madondo.

The timing couldn’t be more perfect. Richards Bay are set to host Golden Arrows in a massive KZN derby this Friday in the Betway Premiership. While the ink is barely dry on his new contract, fans will be hoping to see Barns back in the blue and white kit as they look to climb into the top eight.

For Barns, the mission is simple: rediscover the magic that made him a household name and prove that, sometimes, you can indeed go home again.