Sinamandla Zondi, the late Durban City star, was regarded as the fittest member of the club, according to insiders at the promotion-chasing side.
The midfielder collapsed during pre-match warm-ups ahead of their Motsepe Foundation Championship match against Milford FC on Tuesday.
READ | RIP: Durban City midfielder passes away
He was rushed to the hospital, but the fixture had to be abandoned at halftime when it was confirmed that the player had passed away.
Nicknamed 'Sgora' for his impressive fitness and strong build, he had been with Durban City for three seasons.
"Sgora was a popular guy in our team, and we are still in shock over what happened yesterday," a source tells KickOff.com.
"The team was engaged in their usual warm-ups before the match when this tragic incident occurred. Out of nowhere, he began to suffer convulsions and collapsed. They attempted to assist him, but when it became clear that he wasn't responding to first aid, the paramedics transported him to the hospital.
"After the game kicked off, halftime arrived, and while everyone was in the change room, the team received a phone call from the hospital delivering the devastating news that he had passed away.
"Apparently, he died upon arrival at the hospital.
READ | Durban City's promotion push dented
“This has shaken the entire team because he was not someone who easily fell ill. Having known him for the past three years, I can attest to his incredible physical condition. He played week in and week out.
"He was the fittest player in the team, covering more distance than anyone else on the GPS. I understand why all the players are feeling unsettled by this situation. I would also be scared if I were a player," adds the source.
Details regarding Zondi’s funeral are yet to be confirmed.
