The South African rugby community is in mourning following the tragic passing of former national women’s team captain Lusanda Dumke, who died at age 29 after battling a rare form of gastric cancer. The accomplished back row player, recognized as SA Rugby’s Women’s Player of the Year in 2022, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy both on and off the field.
Dumke’s international career spanned 33 Test caps, during which she captained the national side on three separate occasions. Her leadership extended to the domestic arena where she guided the Bull Daisies to an unprecedented trio of consecutive Women’s Premier Division championships, establishing herself as one of the nation’s most influential rugby figures.
SA Rugby President Mark Alexander delivered a heartfelt tribute, characterizing Dumke as “a symbol of courage, leadership, and resilience far beyond her years.” He emphasized how her dignified composure amidst profound personal health challenges continued to inspire teammates and opponents alike. “Even in the face of immense personal challenge she carried herself with dignity and strength, inspiring those around her on and off the field,” Alexander stated. “Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the example she set, and the pride with which she represented her country.”
The rugby star had stepped away from professional competition this past August to focus on her health, though the specific nature of her illness had not been publicly disclosed until now. Her diagnosis involved an uncommon gastric cancer variant that ultimately claimed her life prematurely.
Dumke’s passing has triggered an outpouring of grief across the international rugby community, with tributes highlighting not only her athletic prowess but her character and leadership qualities that made her an icon in women’s rugby development. Her contribution to the sport’s growth in South Africa, particularly in women’s competitions, is regarded as foundational and transformative.