A Zimbabwe Cricket statement said Dambanevana has been hospitalized and is receiving care after a medical procedure performed in March.
Her senior international umpiring career commenced on 2 September 2023, and she later officiated at the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE and the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, where she was part of the groundbreaking all‑female panel of match officials.
Earlier, she officiated the final between India and England at the 2023 Under‑19 Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa, becoming the first Zimbabwean woman to umpire a World Cup final.
In total, she officiated in 63 senior international matches—42 women’s T20Is, 11 women’s ODIs and 10 men’s T20Is—as well as numerous domestic and youth competitions.
She also played for Zimbabwe from 2009 to 2014, appearing in the 2011 World Cup Qualifier, and was appointed to the ICC development panel of umpires in 2022.
“Sarah served Zimbabwe with distinction, first as a player and then as an umpire, earning a place on the world stage,” said ZC chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani. “Seeing her stand in a World Cup final was a moment of immense pride for our cricket community and nation. She showed young Zimbabwean women that they belong at the highest levels of the game, including in roles where opportunities had long been limited.”
“Through her achievements, she opened doors and gave others the confidence to pursue their ambitions. We will remember her dedication, professionalism and willingness to help others grow. Though her passing leaves a painful void in our cricket family, the example she set will continue to inspire future generations.”