Sad news in South Africa. Lusanda Dumke, a three-time captain of the Springboks, died on Tuesday, the South African federation announced in a statement. Capped 33 times, the former back-rower died of a “rare gastric cancer”.

“She played with heart and humility, always giving everything she had for her team. Her work ethic, her tenacity and her selfless commitment set the standard, and she led by example every time she stepped onto the field“, said South African federation president Mark Alexander with emotion.

Before concluding: “Even in the face of immense personal challenges, she conducted herself with dignity and strength, inspiring those around her on and off the field. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the example she set and the pride with which she represented her country“.