By AGISANANG SCUFF
18 December 2025- The Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie said he has received with great sadness the news of the passing of Lusanda Dumke, one of South Africa’s most respected and influential women’s rugby players. McKenzie said Dumke served her country with distinction, earning 33 Test caps for the Springbok Women and captaining the national side.
He further said she was also a central figure in the rise of the Bulls Daisies, leading them to three successive Women’s Premier Division titles and becoming a symbol of excellence and resilience in the women’s game.
McKenzie added that Dumke will be remembered as a leader who carried the hopes of her teammates and the pride of her nation every time she stepped on to the field.
“She represented courage, discipline and an unbreakable competitive spirit. We acknowledge that women’s rugby had seen major growth and development during the period that Dumke had dedicated herself to the sport. Her passing, following a battle with a rare form of gastric cancer, had greatly impoverished the rugby community.
“Dumke was a role model whose journey inspired young women across South Africa to believe in their place in rugby and in sport more broadly.
“Her passing is a devastating loss to the rugby community and to the country. We honour her contribution, her leadership, and the doors she opened for future generations,” he said.
McKenzie said they extend their heartfelt condolences to Dumke’s family, friends, teammates, coaches and supporters. He said may Dumke’s legacy continue to uplift and inspire South African sport.
“She will always be remembered in the hearts of all the women and girls she has inspired,” said McKenzie.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) Buffalo City Constituency Leader and Member of Provincial Leader (MPL), Leander Kruger said: “They mourn the passing of Springbok Women’s rugby player and Mdantsane trailblazer, Dumke, who lost her battle with cancer at the age of 28. South Africa has lost an exceptional athlete, a leader, and a source of inspiration to countless young people, particularly young women who saw in Dumke as a powerful example of what dedication, resilience, and belief can achieve.
“Dumke’s journey from Mdantsane to representing South Africa in the green and gold was one of exceptional determination, resilience, and courage. Her impact extended far beyond the rugby field. She was a role model rooted in her community, never forgetting where she came from, and always carrying herself with humility and grace.”
The Guardian 