The decorated loose forward passed away at the age of 28 after a courageous battle with a rare form of gastric cancer.

Dumke was the beating heart of the Bulls Daisies from the very beginning. Appointed captain when the franchise was formed in 2023, she went on to lead the side into the history books, guiding them to an unprecedented three consecutive Women’s Premier Division titles, capped off by the 2025 championship.

Lusanda Dumke. Photo: SA Rugby

In just two seasons, she amassed 31 appearances in the blue jersey, leaving an indelible mark on the team and the competition.

Her influence stretched far beyond the franchise. Dumke was a stalwart of the Springbok Women setup, earning 33 Test caps and captaining her country on three occasions. 

Whether in a Bulls or Springbok jersey, she played with a fearless commitment and quiet authority that lifted those around her.

Thando Manana, Head of High Performance and Special Projects at the Blue Bulls Company, paid a moving tribute to the fallen skipper.

Lusanda Dumke. Photo: Carl Fourie/Gallo Images

“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 Manana.

“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 until the very 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 communicated by the family in due course.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg