The USA Eagles are stirring up excitement with their latest training squad announcement, and it's not just any player making headlines. The team has named the brother of a renowned Springbok star in their 35-man roster, sparking curiosity and anticipation among rugby enthusiasts.
A Springbok's Sibling Steps Into the Spotlight
The USA Eagles are gearing up for the 2026 international season and have selected Dan Kriel, the twin brother of South African rugby icon Jesse Kriel, for their training squad. This choice has caught the attention of many, especially those with a keen interest in South African rugby.
Dan Kriel, a 31-year-old centre from Pietermaritzburg, is currently playing for the Seattle Seawolves in Major League Rugby. With his impressive resume, including his time at the Bulls academy and representing South Africa at the U20 level, Kriel is now aiming to make his mark on the USA's rugby scene.
But here's where it gets intriguing: the USA Eagles acknowledge their need to strengthen specific positions, and Kriel might just be the answer. At 6'3" and 107kg, he brings a formidable presence to the field.
A Squad with South African Flair
Kriel is not the only South African in the squad. Marno Redelinghuys and Rhyno Herbst, his teammates at the Seawolves, have also been selected, along with New England Free Jacks' Wayne van der Bank. This trio of South African talents adds a unique flavor to the USA's rugby ambitions.
Scott Lawrence, the team's coach, emphasizes the importance of this training camp in evaluating players for the long-term goals of the USA Eagles, especially with the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia on the horizon. He said, "This pre-season development assembly is crucial for assessing current Eagles and identifying new talents who can address our positional needs."
Building Depth for Future Success
The training camp, held in Chula Vista, California, aims to bolster the USA's player depth, building on their recent success against Romania in the 2025 November tour. Ranked 16th globally, the USA Eagles will soon face a challenging test in the Nations Cup in July, followed by a World Cup opener against France in 2027.
As the USA Eagles continue their journey, one question lingers: Can this squad, with its blend of local and international talent, rise to the occasion and make a lasting impact on the global rugby stage? The answer awaits in the thrilling matches to come.
