Anathi Qolo Leads Bulls Daisies into Super League Final Carrying a Legacy of Grit and Emotional Tribute

Bulls Daisies captain Anathi Qolo discusses the emotional final ahead, honoring Lusanda Dumke, and her journey from netball to professional rugby.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 3, 2026, 7:01 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

From Netball Courts to Professional Rugby Stardom

Anathi Qolo’s ascent to the captaincy of South Africa’s premier women’s rugby franchise is a testament to unconventional career paths. Originally a netball player in the Eastern Cape, Qolo initially doubted whether her physique and background suited the rugby pitch. It was the influence of regional legends like Mandisa Williams that convinced her professional rugby was a viable reality. Since joining the Isuzu Bulls Daisies, Qolo has transformed into a formidable Springbok forward, frequently telling skeptics to "Google me" to verify her credentials in a sport she once never imagined playing.

A Season Dedicated to the Memory of Lusanda Dumke

The current campaign carries a profound emotional weight for the Daisies squad. Qolo assumed leadership following the tragic passing of beloved former captain Lusanda Dumke last year. For Qolo and her teammates, every match this season has served as a tribute to Dumke’s legacy. The captain admitted that filling such shoes has been a "heavy" responsibility, but she credits the unity of the forward pack for making the transition manageable. The goal for this Saturday’s final is not just to secure a trophy, but to honor the teammate who "thought of the team first" in everything she did.

The High Performance Advantage at Loftus

The Bulls Daisies have set the gold standard for professionalism in the South African women's game, entering the final with seven wins from seven matches and a points differential exceeding 400. Unlike many of their league rivals who balance full-time employment with evening training sessions, the Daisies operate in a full-time high-performance bubble. Qolo emphasized that this privilege allows the team to focus entirely on tactical analysis and physical growth, though she expressed deep empathy for opponents who must juggle work and sport.