Share
16th December 2025
11:52am GMT
Former Springboks Women captain Lusanda Dumke has passed away following a battle with a rare gastric cancer.
Dumke was capped 33 times by South Africa and was named SA Rugby's Women's Rugby Player of the Year in 2022. She captained her country on three occasions.
Her club side Isuzu Bulls Daisies won three consecutive Women’s Premier Division titles while captained by Dumke.
Tributes for the 29-year-old have flooded in since news of her death was announced. These have been led by the president of South Africa Rugby, Mark Alexander.
He said: "Lusanda will be remembered not only as a former captain of our Springbok Women's team, but also as a symbol of courage, leadership, and resilience far beyond her years.
“She played the game with heart and humility, always giving everything she had for her team. Her work ethic, toughness, and selfless commitment set the standard, and she led by example every time she stepped onto the field.
“Even in the face of immense personal challenge, she carried herself with dignity and strength, inspiring those around her on and off the field. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the example she set, and the pride with which she represented her country.
“On behalf of SA Rugby, we extend our deepest condolences to the Dumke family, loved ones, friends, and teammates, on the sad passing of Lusanda.
"Losing someone so young to cancer is heartbreaking, and our thoughts are with all who loved and supported her through his journey. May you find strength, comfort, and peace during this difficult time.”
