Lukhanya Tsiki, 22, was taking part in fitness tests on Monday at Fort Hare Academy when he suddenly collapsed when his group took a break from their exercises.
The academy is run by former South Africa Test fast bowler Mfuneko Ngam.
"He was fine, he didn't have any problems, he was one of those guys who could run the yo-yo (bleep test) up to 20. He ran 17 and after he was finished, he took his shirt off and sat with his mates and coughed and collapsed. We took him to the hospital but it was too late," Ngam was quoted as saying by 'ESPNcricinfo.Com'.
Cricket South Africa chief executive Haroon Lorgat expressed condolences to his family and called it a shocking news.