The Kriel twins could be heading towards a remarkable Rugby World Cup storyline.
While Jesse Kriel has established himself as a two-time Rugby World Cup winner with the Springboks, his twin brother Dan Kriel is closing in on an international opportunity of his own after being included in the USA’s extended squad.
Dan has been selected in a 35-player group preparing for upcoming non-cap matches against an Australia XV, taking another step towards potentially representing the Eagles at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
The USA will face the Australian side in Nashville before the teams meet again in Harrison, New Jersey, on 30 October.
Dan Kriel Pursues USA Opportunity
Although Dan Kriel has yet to make his Test debut for the USA, his latest selection highlights his growing involvement in the country’s international programme.
The centre has already been part of the USA’s wider preparations, including an alignment camp earlier in 2026.
His potential transition to international rugby has been made possible by his long-term involvement in the American game.
Kriel moved to the United States in 2022 after a career in South African rugby and joined the Seattle Seawolves in Major League Rugby.
From Bulls Prospect to American Rugby
Born in Cape Town, Kriel came through the Blue Bulls system and represented South Africa at the 2014 World Rugby Under-20 Championship.
He made his senior breakthrough with the Bulls before later representing the Stormers and Lions.
His move to Seattle marked a new chapter in his career.
Kriel made an immediate impression in Major League Rugby, scoring four tries during his first season as the Seawolves reached the championship final.
He continued to establish himself in the competition and was named in the All-MLR Second XV in 2024 after another strong campaign with Seattle.
His consistent presence in American rugby has now put him in contention for a potential USA debut.
World Cup Qualification Could Open the Door
Kriel’s international ambitions are particularly interesting because of his potential eligibility for the USA under World Rugby’s residency rules.
If he becomes eligible as expected in 2027, he could be in contention for selection at the Rugby World Cup in Australia.
The USA have been drawn in Pool E, alongside France, Japan and Samoa, setting up a challenging group if the Eagles qualify and Kriel earns his place in the final squad.
For Dan, making the World Cup would represent a significant achievement after taking a very different route from his twin brother.
Jesse Kriel Has Already Written His Name in History
While Dan is still chasing his first international cap, Jesse has become one of the most experienced centres in South African rugby.
The Springbok centre was part of South Africa’s 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup-winning squads and played in every match during the Springboks’ successful 2023 campaign.
With 94 Test caps, Jesse is also closing in on the prestigious 100-Test milestone.
That means the Kriel twins could enter the 2027 Rugby World Cup from completely different positions: Jesse potentially reaching a century of Springbok appearances, while Dan could be preparing for his first appearance at the tournament with the USA.
Could the Kriel Twins Meet at the World Cup?
That is the storyline rugby fans will be watching.
The Springboks are in Pool B alongside Italy, Georgia and Romania, while the USA are in Pool E with France, Japan and Samoa.
The teams would therefore need to progress beyond the pool stage and meet in the knockout rounds for the brothers to potentially face each other.
For now, Dan’s immediate objective is simpler: earn his first USA cap and force his way into the country’s 2027 Rugby World Cup plans.
If he gets there, the Kriel family could have one of the most intriguing stories of the tournament — with one twin representing the reigning world champions and the other chasing glory with the USA.
