SEDIBENG.- Former Bafana Bafana team manager Sipho Nkumane has died at the age of 56 following a long illness.

His family representative, Bafana Nkumane, confirmed the sad news to Sedibeng Ster Sport, describing his death as a huge loss to the family.

He passed away at a hospital in the Vaal on August 16 after spending time going in and out of hospital.

He leaves behind his wife and three children.

Before his death, Sedibeng Ster Sport recently learned from one of the local football administrators that Nkumane was fighting for his life in the ICU. Nkumane widely recognised as one of the top football administrators to come from the Vaal, having previously served as a member of the SAFA Vaal Executive Committee under the leadership of former SAFA president Dr Molefi Oliphant.

Dr Oliphant later recruited him to serve at the SAFA national office.

During his time with the SAFA Vaal Executive Committee, Nkumane worked alongside several notable figures, including Ishmael Maseli, Patrick Mphulenyane, Phiki Khumalo, Patrick Louw, Selokela Masetle, Thabo Moloi, Jack Leboko, Paul More, Grace Tshabalala and Naithan Flaum, many of whom have also passed away.

He was once involved with the now-defunct club Vaal Professional.

In addition to his national duties with SAFA, where he managed Bafana Bafana and worked with top local and international players, Nkumane served in various other roles within the organisation. He was once involved with the now-defunct club Vaal Professional.

SAFA president Danny Jordaan said that Nkumane’s passing is a big blow to both his family and football at large.

Nkumane is scheduled to be laid to rest on Saturday.