Jesse Kriel’s twin brother representing US: ‘Grateful for this country’

Jesse Kriel’s twin brother, Dan Kriel, has opened up about representing the US national rugby team at an uncapped match against Australia, which recently took place 

The 33-year-old moved to the US in 2022 to play club rugby. He is expected to complete his mandatory five-year residency in 2027, in time for the Rugby World Cup.

JESSE KRIEL’S BROTHER TO MAKE AMERICAN NATIONAL SIDE DEBUT

On his Instagram account, Dan Kriel celebrated his call-up to represent the US Eagles, the national rugby club, at two recent uncapped matches against Australia A. 

The Cape Town-born rugby player is the twin brother of Springbok Jesse Kriel.

The 33-year-old father of two claimed his experience was one “I’ll never forget”.

He shared: “Incredibly proud and grateful for the opportunity to put on this jersey and represent the USA. An honour I’ll never take for granted.

Dan added: “Forever grateful for this country and excited for what lies ahead”.

COULD HE PLAY IN THE WORLD CUP, AGAINST THE SPRINGBOKS?

In 2022, Dan Kriel and his family moved to the US after signing to the Seattle Seawolves.

Jesse Kriel’s twin brother has also played for the Lions, Bulls, and the Stormers.

Dan’s inclusion in the matches against Australia A was part of the national team’s extended squad World Cup preparation plan.

In 2027, he will become eligible to represent the US as a capped national team player after completing his five-year residency rule.  The milestone could also take place in time for the Rugby World Cup, which takes place across Australia from 1 October to 13 November 2027.

Although the Springboks and the US have been drawn into separate pools, a World Cup fixture between the two countries in the knockout stages cannot be ruled out.