Jesse Kriel
The WeTalkRugby Rating weighs international caps, age against the peak for the position, captaincy, club strength and the strength of the international side.
Across 7 tracked matches: 191 metres from 36 carries, 6 clean breaks, 1 offloads and a 76% tackle success rate (58 made).
Latest on Jesse Kriel
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Season stats
2026Match history
Rugby's Greatest Rivalry 3 apps · 2 tries
Nations Championship 3 apps · 3 tries
Int. Friendly Games 1 apps · 1 tries
About Jesse Kriel
Jesse Kriel is one of the most-capped Springboks of the modern era and one of the least discussed, which is roughly what happens to a defensive specialist in a side that wins.
He plays outside centre, and his job in South Africa’s system is the one that fails visibly and succeeds invisibly. The Springboks defend by pushing hard off the line and trusting the 13 to make the read — if he gets it wrong, the try is his fault, and if he gets it right nobody mentions it. Kriel has been getting it right for over a decade.
He came through the Bulls as a fullback, which is where the aerial work comes from. He is one of the better contestants in the Springboks back line and is regularly used on kick-chase in a game plan that lives on territory.
He was part of the 2019 World Cup squad and started in the 2023 final. He moved to Japan with Canon Eagles and has been selected throughout.
He has captained the Springboks in Tests when the senior leadership group has been rested, which is the clearest indication of how he is regarded internally.
The attacking numbers will never make his case. The defensive record has made it for fifteen years.
Frequently asked questions
What position does Jesse Kriel play?
Jesse Kriel plays as a centre for South Africa.
Which team does Jesse Kriel play for?
Jesse Kriel currently plays for Yokohama Canon Eagles.
How old is Jesse Kriel?
Jesse Kriel is 32 years old (born 15 February 1994).
How tall is Jesse Kriel?
Jesse Kriel stands 1.85m tall.
What nationality is Jesse Kriel?
Jesse Kriel is from South Africa.
How many tries has Jesse Kriel scored?
Jesse Kriel has scored 6 tries and 30 points across 7 tracked matches.
