Motsepe Foundation Championship contenders Casric Stars have bolstered their attacking department by roping in former Polokwane City FC striker Hlayisi Chauke, FARPost has learnt.
The move comes as the Mpumalanga-based outfit intensifies their push for a historic promotion to the Betway Premiership.
Chauke had been a free agent since January 2026 after parting ways with the Limpopo-based club, Rise and Shine. His departure ended a significant chapter with PLK City, a club he joined during the 2021/22 season while they were still competing in the South African second tier.
He made an immediate impact in his debut campaign, netting eight goals and establishing himself as a reliable offensive threat.
The 24-year-old frontman was part of the squad that secured PLK City automatic promotion to the top flight during the 2022/23 season. Following their promotion, Chauke remained a key player under coach Phuti Mohafe.
His transition to the elite league saw him feature in 23 games during the 2023/24 term, contributing two goals. However, his momentum was disrupted during the 2024/25 season, where he managed 11 appearances and a single goal.
The current campaign proved even more challenging; hampered by nagging injuries, Chauke struggled for game time and failed to register an appearance before his eventual exit.
HLAYISI CHAUKE SIGNS FOR CASRIC STARS
This publication can confirm that Chauke has officially signed a permanent deal with Casric Stars, with the agreement finalised earlier this week.
The move represents a homecoming of sorts to the Motsepe Foundation Championship, where Chauke previously enjoyed his most prolific scoring form.
Casric are currently in a prime position to challenge for the Motsepe Foundation Championship title. They sit second on the log with 30 points after 17 games, trailing leaders Milford FC by a narrow three-point margin.
The addition of Chauke is viewed as a strategic masterstroke by the Casric management. His top-flight experience and intimate knowledge of the grueling second tier promotion race are expected to be invaluable assets.
He is also expected to help them either clinch the league trophy or, at the very least, secure a spot in the PSL Promotional/Relegation Playoffs come the end of the season.
If he can rediscover the fitness and form that saw him shine in his early PLK City days, Casric may have just found the missing piece of their Motsepe Foundation Championship puzzle.
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