IsiXhosa Rugby Commentator Kaunda Ntunja Dies
Popular IsiXhosa rugby commentator Kaunda Ntuja dies at the age of 38. His death was confirmed by his family.
Kaunda’s sister, Tando, confirmed the passing of the legendary commentator on social media this morning – 20 July 2020.
“It is with deep sadness I confirm the passing of our beloved brother Kunda Ntunja, earlier today in East London, Eastern Cape,” she wrote confirming his death.
The cause of Kaunda’s death has not been disclosed. The family has asked the public “to refrain from spreading unnecessary information without confirming with the family first.”
The family will give further updates in due time, but at the moment, they are asking for a moment to take in what has just happened.
“So we ask you to give us a moment to recoup as a family before we update you all with further information.”
Kaunda Ntunja Dies
Kaunda will be greatly remembered for his energetic commentary of rugby in IsiXhosa. He is considered one of the best in his trade.
The best commentary I’ve ever heard, I still get goosebumps ❤️. May the ineffable legend Kaunda Ntunja Rest In Peace 🙌🏾pic.twitter.com/gru0JXyAlD
— Magadlela (@Gama_Maverick) July 20, 2020
Kaunda lived a life of rugby and he was a player before becoming a commentator. He captained the SA Schools team in 2000 and won the 2005 Currie Cup with the Free State Cheetahs.
Supersport sent their deepest condolences to Kaunda’s family and friends.
SuperSport sadly mourns the passing away of leading rugby commentator & presenter Kaunda Ntunja. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Lala Ngoxolo, Zizi 💙 pic.twitter.com/keqEtTPETd
— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) July 20, 2020
The Springboks expressed their sadness at the passing away of one of the nation’s most-beloved rugby sons who had an illustrious career in the sport.
We are deeply saddened at the loss of one of our most-beloved rugby sons, Kaunda Ntunja, who passed away at the age of 38 this morning. He was a true rugby pioneer – the first black African SA Schools captain, a Currie Cup winner and a groundbreaking SuperSport commentator. pic.twitter.com/OzcfHbYgqh
— Springboks (@Springboks) July 20, 2020
South Africa has had to contend with the passing away of popular figures in the last couple of weeks. Nelson and Winnie Mandela’s daughter Zindzi Mandela and Mary Twala are among the several prominent figures that have been laid to rest in recent weeks.