The Isuzu Bulls Daisies will pay a profound tribute to their late captain, Lusanda Dumke, who tragically passed away in December 2025 following a brave battle with cancer.
Known affectionately to teammates and fans as “Captain Dura”, Dumke’s legacy will be woven into the very fabric of the team for the 2026 season.
In a moving announcement, the Blue Bulls Company confirmed that the number six jersey, the number Dumke wore while leading her side to dominance, will be officially retired for the duration of the 2026 season.
Furthermore, in a unique and visual mark of respect, Dumke’s image will appear on every player’s number on both the home and away kits. This ensures that the captain who led the Isuzu Bulls Daisies to a historic “three-peat” of Premier Division titles will quite literally have the team’s back as they take to the field this year.
Lusanda Dumke was more than just a flanker; she was the spiritual core of the Isuzu Bulls Daisies since the professional franchise’s inception in 2023. Her career highlights reflect a player who reached the pinnacle of the sport:
- A “Three-Peat” leader: Captained the Daisies to three consecutive Women’s Premier Division titles (2023–2025).
- National icon: Earned 33 Test caps for the Springbok Women and led the national team as captain on three occasions.
- Player of the Year: Named the SA Rugby Women’s Player of the Year in 2022.
- Philanthropist: Founded the Lusanda Dumke Foundation to support young athletes.
As the team prepares for the 2026 season, they do so with a heavy heart but a clear mission: to honour the standard set by the woman who made the number six jersey legendary.
