Former Springbok Women and Bulls Daisies captain Lusanda Dumke has passed away after courageously battling a rare form of gastric cancer, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The news, released by her adopted provincial union, the Blue Bulls, has left fans and teammates mourning the loss of a player who epitomised resilience and selflessness on and off the field.
Dumke, who earned 33 Test caps and captained the national team on three occasions, succumbed to the illness in East London in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Her incredible journey in women’s rugby was marked by significant achievements, including leading her franchise to an astounding three-peat championship victory.
Dumke’s legacy transcends her athletic accomplishments; she is remembered as a beacon of inspiration for both her teammates and the broader sporting community in South Africa.
Head of High Performance and Special Projects at the Blue Bulls Company, Thando Manana, has expressed profound admiration for Dumke in a heartfelt tribute.
‘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,’ he said.
‘Her fight against cancer mirrored her toughness on the field; she fought till the end. We have lost a precious, rare gem.’
Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby, also shared touching remarks about Dumke, highlighting her as a ‘symbol of courage, leadership, and resilience,’
He paid tribute to her heart, humility, and relentless work ethic, emphasising the profound impact she had on her colleagues throughout her career.
‘Even in the face of immense personal challenge, she carried herself with dignity and strength, inspiring those around her,’ Alexander remarked, adding that her legacy will endure through the many lives she touched.
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Picture: SA Rugby
