The left-arm quick, who is the identical twin brother of established Proteas all-rounder Marco Jansen, has been included in a new-look South African squad for the upcoming T20 International Tri-Series against Namibia and Zimbabwe in Windhoek, as well as the subsequent three-match T20 International series against the Namibians.

The 26-year-old, like his twin brother, plied his trade in Bloemfontein before settling in Pretoria with the Titans. Marco, however, has firmly established himself as a Proteas regular across all three formats and is one of the first names on the team sheet.

Marco and Duan Jansen along with Tristan Stubbs at the IPL. Photo: Cricinfo

After an outstanding 2025/26 domestic campaign, Duan has finally forced his way onto the national radar. While he initially made his name as an out-and-out fast bowler, much like Marco, his growing ability with the bat has caught the eye of Proteas head coach Shukri Conrad.

Free State left-arm seamer Tiaan van Vuuren is also on the national team’s radar following a string of impressive performances with the ball. However, his ability with the bat is another quality that could eventually make him a strong candidate for international honours, although he is currently nursing a niggle.

Conrad has made no secret of his appreciation for genuine all-rounders, and Jansen has certainly ticked plenty of boxes in recent months, earning him the opportunity to play for Namibia.

“We’re constantly looking at the guys that are doing well at domestic level, especially when it comes to building a base of all-rounders,” said Conrad. “I mean, I’m not infatuated with all-rounders, but I think the more quality all-rounders we have at our disposal, the better. 

“Duan did particularly well across all formats. I think the one thing that stood out for me was watching that One-Day Cup final against the Lions and how he managed quite a tricky period, with the bat, especially.

“We know that he often operates in the shadow of his twin brother, but he’s still got all the ingredients of becoming a quality all-rounder. If Duan can do half of some of the things that his twin brother has done, then I think it’s going to be a wonderful addition to our squad.

Tiaan van Vuuren. Photo: Morgan Piek

“In all formats, he did particularly well in the longer format for the Titans. But if you asked me what stood out, it was that knock he played in the final. He’s more than a left-arm seamer, and I think at domestic level, he’s a genuine all-rounder. Hopefully, he can step up to the international fold as well.”

For Duan, the opportunity represents another chapter in a journey that has seen him emerge from his brother’s considerable shadow and carve out an identity of his own. 

The first T20 International between Namibia and South Africa is scheduled for 28 August at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek, with the first ball due to be bowled at 14:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh