South Africa is in mourning following the tragic death of Lusanda Dumke, the country’s celebrated women’s rugby captain, who passed away at the age of 29 after a courageous battle with a rare form of gastric cancer. Known for her leadership, resilience, and dedication to the sport, Dumke leaves behind a legacy that has inspired countless fans and athletes alike.
Dumke earned 33 caps for the Springbok Women’s team and also represented South Africa in Rugby Sevens, becoming a cornerstone of the national squad. In 2022, she was honored as South Africa Rugby’s Women’s Player of the Year, a testament to her skill, commitment, and influence both on and off the field. Her final days were spent in East London, where she succumbed to the illness that she had faced with remarkable courage.
Mark Alexander, President of South Africa Rugby, paid tribute to Dumke, emphasizing her extraordinary impact on the sport. “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,” Alexander said. He added, “She played the game with heart and humility, always giving everything she had for her team. Even in the face of immense personal challenge, she carried herself with dignity and strength, inspiring those around her.”
Dumke made her international test debut in 2018 against Wales and was named captain three years later. Over her career, she scored ten tries and became a respected leader on the field. At club level, she represented the Izuzu Bulls Daisies, contributing significantly to their success. Her leadership helped guide the Daisies through multiple championships, and her dedication to the team was widely acknowledged by teammates and competitors alike.
Tributes poured in from all corners of South African sport following the news of her passing. Thando Manana, Head of High Performance and Special Projects at the Blue Bulls Company, described Dumke as “more than a captain; she was the heartbeat of our Daisies team and a true inspiration to everyone at the Bulls and in South African sport.” Manana reflected on Dumke’s extraordinary achievements, noting that to reach such heights by the age of 28 was “simply phenomenal.”
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Dumke’s fight against cancer mirrored her toughness on the rugby field. She battled the illness with the same determination and grit that defined her sporting career, and her perseverance has left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Manana added, “Her legacy of resilience and success will forever define this era of women’s rugby in South Africa. We have lost a precious, rare gem, and our thoughts are with her family.”
Lusanda Dumke’s death is a profound loss for South African rugby and for the wider sporting community. Beyond her achievements on the field, she will be remembered for her character, her strength in adversity, and her unwavering commitment to her team and country. South Africa Rugby extends its deepest condolences to Dumke’s family, friends, teammates, and all who were touched by her life, hoping they find strength and comfort during this difficult time.
Her legacy will endure in the hearts of fans and the generations of young players who look to her as a model of courage, dedication, and leadership.
