SA Rugby public mourns the passing of as respected Xhosa commentator and former player Kaunda Ntunja dies

SA Rugby public mourns the passing of as respected Xhosa commentator and former player Kaunda Ntunja dies

Respected South African rugby commentator and broadcaster Kaunda Ntunja has died at the age of 38.

An award-winning rugby commentator, Ntunja became the first black African to captain SA Schools and SA U19 in 2000 and 2001 respectively. Having played at youth level for the Sharks, he represented the Cheetahs, Southern Kings and Lions at senior level, before hanging up his boots in 2008 due to recurring injuries. 

Following his playing days, Ntunja became a Xhosa rugby commentator for South African broadcaster SuperSport, calling his first match between the Kings and the British & Irish Lions in 2009.

The tragic news of his passing was confirmed by his sister, Tando, on social media on Monday morning.



"It is with deep sadness I confirm the passing of our beloved brother Kaunda Ntunja, earlier today in East London, Eastern Cape," Tando Ntunja wrote. 


"As you can imagine, we still trying to make sense of this tragic news and we ask for your love, care and discretion as we prepare to lay my big brother to rest."

 

Considered one of the most animated and popular commentators in South African rugby, Ntunja's work with Supersport has claimed the attention of the worldwide rugby public.

He famously introduced Siya Kolisi as the Springbok captain for the first time in 2018 against England at Ellis Park and featured prominently throughout the Rugby World Cup.




The South African rugby public and fans took to Twitter following Kaunda Ntunja passing.


 








Image via: Supersport.







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