The rugby community in South Africa’s Border region is in mourning following the tragic death of Fort Beaufort United player Sive Tshaka. The 34-year-old club rugby star was fatally stabbed in Keiskammahoek this past weekend....Click to Read More >>➤
Reports indicate that Tshaka was attempting to return money that was allegedly stolen by a relative. This act of honesty turned deadly when the family member allegedly retaliated, stabbing Tshaka in the chest. He succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Tshaka, affectionately nicknamed ‘Richie McCaw’ after the legendary All Blacks captain, was a well-known figure in local rugby. His career included playing for Walter Sisulu University, Police, Lovedale, and his most recent club, Fort Beaufort United. His sudden death led to the postponement of the Border Brutten Cup semi-finals, a tournament his club was actively competing in.
A Legacy of Character and Commitment
The news has sent shockwaves through his club and the wider rugby community. Fort Beaufort United deputy chair Akhona Mgijima described the incident as “sudden and tragic.” He expressed his profound personal grief, having known Tshaka for over a decade.
“It is devastating for me personally and the rest of the club,” Mgijima told the *Daily Dispatch*. “I coached him at WSU in about 2012; he played for me for a couple of years. I have lost a couple of players in the past, but none have hurt this much. What will be missed the most is the type of person he was. He was a strong character and a notable one in the changing room. He was an authentic individual.”
In an official statement, Fort Beaufort United Rugby Club confirmed the devastating loss. The club highlighted that Tshaka joined during the successful 2025 Eastern Cape Super 14 Competition, where he was instrumental in helping the team reach the final in its debut season.
The club remembered ‘Richie McCaw’ for his commitment, dedication, and larger-than-life character. His leadership skills earned him a stand-in captain role in a recent pool match. The statement also noted that the club and his peers would deeply miss his jokes, storytelling, and aggressive tackling prowess on the field.
Police Investigation and Court Proceedings
A murder investigation is now underway. Authorities have confirmed that a 41-year-old suspect was apprehended in connection with the stabbing. The suspect is scheduled to appear in the Keiskammahoek magistrate’s court to face charges.
The club extended its heartfelt condolences to Tshaka’s family, friends, and all the clubs he represented, especially his birth club, Sparrows Rugby Club. The tragic death of Sive Tshaka has left a void in the hearts of many, marking a profound loss for South African club rugby. ...Click to Read More >>➤
