South Africa‘s cricketing landscape has produced another interesting sibling story with the emergence of Duan Jansen, the twin brother of international all-rounder Marco Jansen. While Marco established himself at the highest level earlier, Duan’s journey has been one of patience, setbacks and persistence.
The two brothers share an imposing physical presence and began their cricketing journey together, but their careers have taken slightly different paths. Duan, a left-arm fast bowler and right-handed batter, has gradually built his reputation through domestic and franchise cricket before earning his opportunity with the Proteas.
Duan Jansen’s early life and connection with Virat Kohli
Duan was born on May 1, 2000, in Klerksdorp, South Africa, with his twin brother Marco being approximately 15 minutes older.
Their cricketing ability was identified at a young age by their father, Koos Jansen, who was a former Free State Cheetahs rugby player. The twins reportedly began showing their sporting potential when they were around nine years old.
The twins also attracted attention during India’s tour of South Africa in 2017–18. As teenagers, they worked as net bowlers for the visiting Indian team, where Duan reportedly caught the attention of Virat Kohli. The Indian legend also praised the duo with a ‘well bowled’ phrase and posed for a photograph with the young twins—a picture they later proudly framed.
Similarities between Duan and Marco Jansen
Duan and Marco share several striking similarities, both on and off the cricket field. As identical twins, they have almost identical physical builds and have followed remarkably similar paths since taking up the sport at a young age.
Both brothers stand at around 6 feet 8 inches (203 cm) and are left-arm fast bowlers, allowing them to generate bounce and make use of their height while attacking batters. They also both bat with their right hand, giving them another important similarity as all-round cricketers.
Their cricketing journeys began together, with both brothers developing their skills from a young age and eventually progressing through domestic and franchise cricket. Their ability to contribute with both bat and ball has made them valuable players in different formats.
The most remarkable similarity, however, is their shared rise to the international stage. After years of developing their careers separately, Duan and Marco eventually had the opportunity to represent South Africa together, creating a memorable chapter in the country’s cricket history.
A long road to international cricket
Unlike Marco, who broke into international cricket at a relatively young age, Duan’s progress was interrupted by several setbacks. During his time playing for North West, Duan suffered two foot injuries and struggled to find consistency. The difficult period became so frustrating that he briefly considered walking away from cricket.
However, support from his family and a sports psychologist helped him continue. His move to the Momentum Multiply Titans subsequently provided an important turning point in his career.
Franchise cricket journey
Duan gradually built his reputation through franchise cricket, particularly in T20 competitions. His breakthrough came during the 2022 Caribbean Premier League, where he played for the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots and finished among the leading wicket-takers as the team went on to win the tournament.
Duan was picked by Mumbai Indians for the 2023 IPL season and made his tournament debut against Kolkata Knight Riders. He also spent time with MI Cape Town during the opening seasons of the SA20 before subsequently joining Joburg Super Kings as a replacement player.
In England, his performances for Gloucestershire further strengthened his credentials. Ahead of his international breakthrough, Duan claimed 16 wickets in seven T20 Blast matches, providing a major boost to his reputation.
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Debut for South Africa and record with Marco
Duan eventually received his maiden senior white-ball call-up for South Africa in August 2026 during the team’s tour involving Namibia and Zimbabwe. His international breakthrough followed years of domestic and franchise cricket, giving him an opportunity to finally join his twin brother on the international stage. Duan made an immediate impact, recording his career-best ODI figures of 4/31 against Namibia.
Further, in September 2026, the brothers reached a remarkable milestone when Duan and Marco became the first set of twins to play together in an official international match for the South African men’s national team. The duo played in the recently-concluded second ODI against Australia. Duan scored unbeaten 27 in the game but went wicketless with the ball in Proteas’ 32-run win over Aussies.
Personal relationship of the talented Proteas star
Public information about Duan’s relationship status is limited, with no confirmed reports regarding a girlfriend or partner. The South African cricketer largely keeps his personal life away from the spotlight, with his focus remaining on his cricket career and professional commitments.
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