Tributes pour in for Lusanda Dumke after Bok Women star passes on

Dumke announced she was stepping away from the game back in August to focus on treatment and her health, forcing her to miss the Women's Rugby World Cup where she was set to play a starring role.

A decorated loose forward, Dumke was a key figure for the Springbok Women, earning 33 Test caps and captaining the national side on three occasions, while she also represented the Springbok Women's Sevens team. Her leadership and skill on the field earned her admiration across South African rugby, culminating in her being named SA Rugby’s Women’s Rugby Player of the Year in 2022.

On the domestic front, she led the Blue Bulls Daisies from the franchise's inception in 2023, guiding the team to an unprecedented three consecutive Women's Premier Division titles, including the 2025 championship.

SA Rugby President Mark Alexander led the tributes following news of Dumke's untimely passing.

"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," he said.

"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 he touched, the example he set, and the pride with which he represented his team and 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."

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The Blue Bulls expressed deep sorrow at her passing, remembering her not only as a formidable player and leader but also as a valued member of the rugby community.

"Lusanda was 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," said Thando Manana, Head of High Performance and Special Projects at the Blue Bulls Company.

"To achieve what she did by the age of 28, leading a team to a three-peat and captaining her country, is simply phenomenal.

"Her fight against cancer mirrored her toughness on the field; she fought till the end. 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."

Funeral arrangements will be made public by the family in due course.