Botha, who would have turned 40 on 19 February, played 16 Tests for South Africa between 2010 and 2013. During her provincial career, she ran out for Western Province, Free State and the Golden Lions, and she is the first former Springbok Women’s player to pass away.

A trained biokineticist, Botha made her Test debut in 2010 in a victory for the Springbok Women over Kazakhstan in preparation for the Rugby World Cup later that year.

At the RWC in England, she started in all five matches, as well as all four games at the 2011 Nations Cup tournament in Canada.

Two years later, Botha was again selected for South Africa and toured to the USA for the 2013 Nations Cup, where she was yet again a key member of the Springbok Women's squad.

“Nedene was a trailblazer in many respects and played for South Africa at a time when women’s rugby was still in its infancy - she was really a stalwart of the team a decade ago,” said Mr Alexander.

“To lose any member of the rugby family is a sad day, but to lose someone at such a young age, in the prime of her life, is a tragedy.

“Our condolences go out to her fiancée, Marius Ferreira, her parents Morris and Delene Botha, other family, friends and loved ones. May the memories of Nedene carry you through this very difficult and sad time.”