In tragic news that came to light this week, it was confirmed that 34-year-old club rugby star Sive Tshaka had been stabbed to death in Keiskammahoek this past weekend.
It’s reported that Tshaka – who played for Fort Beaufort rugby club – had been gallantly seeking to return money that had allegedly been ‘stolen’ by a relative.
However, that family member is alleged to have then retaliated and stabbed Tshaka in his chest, which led to his death from the injuries sustained.
Community rocked by death of talented rugby star
Tshaka, who was nicknamed ‘Richie McCaw’ after the legendary former All Blacks captain, had played for a number of clubs in the Border region included Walter Sisulu University, Police, Lovedale and most recently Fort Beaufort United.
His club was set to play in the Border Brutten Cup semi-finals, but these have since been postponed after the tragedy.
Club deputy chair Akhona Mgijima described told the Daily Dispatch that everyone was still reeling from the ‘sudden and tragic’ incident.
“It is devastating for me personally and the rest of the club,” Mgijima said. I have known Tshaka for more than a decade.
“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. nHe was a strong character and a notable one in the changing room. He was an authentic individual.”
A further statement from the club read as follows: “Fort Beaufort United Rugby Club would like to confirm the sudden and tragic passing of its player Sive “Richie McCaw” Tshaka.
“Sive joined Fort Beaufort United during the successful Eastern Cape Super 14 Competition 2025 edition, where he helped the team to reach the final of the tournament on its debut season.
“He was an instrumental member of the team. “Richie McCaw” as he was affectionately known by his teammates and peers showed commitment and dedication not only to our club but to the game of rugby at large.
“Sive was one of the most loved rugby players in the region, this because of his “larger than life character” and his charismatci attributes on and off the field. His dedication to the game of rugby and his leadership skills earned him a role as a stand-in captain in our recent Brutten pool match win against Progress Rugby Club from Komani.
“We will miss his jokes, his funny story telling and mostly importantly aggressive tackling prowess on the field of play.
“We wish to extended our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, current and former teammates, and all the clubs that he represented especially Sparrows Rugby Club his birth club.
“May his lovely soul rest in Peace!”
Murder investigation underway
It’s understood that police are investigating a case of murder after the suspect was apprehended.
The 41-year-old suspect is now set to appear in the Keiskammahoek magistrate’s court on Wednesday.
