Rugby world mourns passing of former Springbok Women’s captain Lusanda Dumke

Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby, has paid tribute to former Springbok Women’s captain Lusanda Dumke, who passed away in East London in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Dumke, 29, had been battling a rare form of gastric cancer.

A stalwart of the game, Dumke was named SA Rugby’s Women’s Player of the Year in 2022. Over the course of her distinguished career, she earned 33 Test caps and captained South Africa on three occasions. She was also a prominent representative of the Springbok Women’s Sevens team.

“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,” said Alexander.

A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP

Alexander noted that Dumke played the game with "heart and humility," consistently setting a high standard for her teammates through her work ethic and selfless commitment.

“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 continued.

 “Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the example she set, and the pride with which she represented her team and country.”

On behalf of the national federation, Alexander extended condolences to the Dumke family, friends, and teammates.

“Losing someone so young to cancer is heartbreaking, and our thoughts are with all who loved and supported her through her journey.”

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Born on 11 September 1996, Dumke’s rugby journey began at the provincial level. She made her debut for the Border Ladies in 2015 at just 18 years old.

Test Debut: 2018 against Wales in Cardiff.

National Captaincy: First led the team in 2021 against Kenya; also captained the side against Australia in 2024.

World Stage: Member of the 2022 Rugby World Cup squad in New Zealand, appearing in matches against France, Fiji, and England.

Sevens Success: Represented South Africa in the 2019 and 2022 Sevens circuits, including a title-winning campaign at the Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens Cup in Tunisia.

Domestic Titles: Captained both Border and the Isuzu Bulls Daisies to provincial championships.

Dumke’s final Test appearance was against Italy during the WXV 2 tournament in Cape Town in 2024. She concluded her international career with a total of 10 Test tries.