Bok Women leadership lifted by confidence-building win over Black Ferns XV
Springbok Women coach Swys de Bruin complimented his squad after they outplayed New Zealand's Black Ferns XV at Athlone Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday night.
Bok women star Lusanda Dumke calls time on glittering career
The 28-year-old loose forward, who earned 33 Test caps and captained the Springbok Women on three occasions, led the Bulls Daisies to their third consecutive Women's Premier Division title in 2025.
Springbok Women performance coach Swys de Bruin acknowledged Dumke's importance to the national setup and expressed full support for her decision.
"Lusanda has been pivotal for us, but we now wish her the best as she battles her medical condition," said De Bruin.
"Her absence will have an impact, but at the same time, the players going to the Rugby World Cup will know that playing for your country while you are fit and strong is indeed a privilege."
Dumke is a previous winner of the SA Rugby Women's Player of the Year award, and her leadership and resilience left a lasting mark on both the Bok Women and the Bulls Daisies.
"Lusanda has been more than just a captain, she's been the heartbeat of the Isuzu Bulls Daisies," said Thando Manana, executive for women's rugby and strategic projects at the Blue Bulls Company.
"Her leadership, humility, and relentless drive have shaped the culture of this team. While we respect her decision to step away for health reasons, her legacy will continue to inspire every player who wears this jersey. We stand firmly behind her and wish her strength and healing in the journey ahead."
Dumke has requested that her privacy be respected in this matter, and no further comment will be made.
Springbok Women seal perfect World Cup send-off with gutsy win over Black Ferns
The Springbok Women gave themselves the perfect World Cup send-off as they defeated New Zealand's Black Ferns XV 41-24 at the Athlone Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday.
Springbok Women looking for improvements in final match before RWC
Swys de Bruin has again tweaked combinations in the Springbok Women's matchday 23 for Saturday's second international friendly against the Black Ferns XV.
Bok Women look to learn from mistakes ahead of second Black Ferns XV test
Springbok Women resumed their training on Monday with renewed energy as they prepared to take on New Zealand's Black Ferns XV for a second time on Saturday.