Dan Kriel, the twin brother of Springbok centre Jesse Kriel, has been named in the USA Eagles’ extended 35-player squad ahead of two upcoming fixtures against an Australia XV.

The South African-born centre’s inclusion brings renewed attention to his potential international career with the United States, where he has been playing since relocating in 2022.

USA head coach Scott Lawrence selected the squad as he continues preparing his team for the final rounds of the Nations Cup. The Eagles are also scheduled to face Hong Kong China, Romania and Georgia before the competition concludes.

The two non-cap matches against Australia XV are set to take place in Nashville and Harrison, New Jersey, on 30 October 2026.

Born in Cape Town, Dan developed his rugby career through the Blue Bulls’ age-group system, where he won the provincial U19 championship before representing South Africa at the 2014 World Rugby Under-20 Championship.

He made his Currie Cup and Super Rugby debuts for the Bulls in 2016 before going on to represent the Stormers and Lions in domestic and continental competitions.

In 2022, Dan moved to the United States to join the Seattle Seawolves in Major League Rugby (MLR). He made an immediate impression, scoring four tries in his first season as the franchise reached the MLR Championship Final.

His consistent performances earned him selection in the All-MLR Second XV in 2024, when Seattle once again finished as runners-up. He remained with the franchise through the 2026 season.

Dan’s inclusion in the USA’s first alignment camp of 2026 had already fuelled speculation about a possible switch to international rugby.

Despite his selection in the extended squad, Dan has yet to earn a Test cap for the United States.

Under World Rugby’s five-year residency rule, he is expected to become eligible to represent the USA in 2027, potentially opening the door to an international debut in the same year as the Rugby World Cup in Australia.

The tournament could provide a major opportunity for the centre if he meets the eligibility requirements and earns selection in the final squad.

The USA Eagles face a challenging draw at the global showpiece, having been placed in a pool alongside France, Japan and Samoa.

Dan’s potential international career also presents an interesting storyline for South African rugby supporters, given his family connection to Jesse, who has established himself as a key member of the Springboks.

For now, Dan’s inclusion in the extended USA squad represents another step in his journey towards potentially representing his adopted rugby home on the international stage.

Jesse Kriel's Twin Brother Dan Named in USA Rugby Squad Ahead of 2027 World Cup - Briefly.co.za