The Ndungane twins remain one of the most unique success stories in South African rugby history, with both brothers going on to represent the Springboks at international level.
While identical twins Akona and Odwa Ndungane both enjoyed distinguished careers in the green and gold, it was Akona who finished with more Test appearances for South Africa.
Having long since hung up their boots, these days the twins are Hollywoodbets brand ambassadors.
Only Springboks
Born in Umtata on 20 February 1981, the pair attended Hudson Park High School. They remain the only two Springboks produced by the East London (now KuGompo City) school.
Akona earned 11 Test caps for the Springboks between 2006 and 2007 after making his international debut against Australia in Brisbane.
The former winger quickly established himself as a dangerous attacking threat and became a regular feature in the national squad during his brief Test career.
He is Springbok #774.
Renowned for his pace
His twin brother, Odwa, made his Springbok debut two years later in 2008 and went on to win nine Test caps between 2008 and 2011.
Like his brother, Odwa played on the wing and was renowned for his pace, finishing ability and work ethic.
He is Springbok #798.
First set of Springbok twins
Although Odwa enjoyed a longer professional career and became a fan favourite during his time with the Sharks, he fell just short of matching Akona’s Springbok tally.
However, Odwa did score more tries (two – against Australia and Wales) than Akona (one – against England) in the green and gold jersey.
The brothers made history as the first set of twins to represent the Springboks, adding a remarkable chapter to South African rugby folklore.
Both players overcame significant adversity on their journey to the top.
Raised in the Eastern Cape, the twins rose through the ranks to become professional rugby players before eventually earning the highest honour in South African rugby.
Factfile: Akona Ndungane
| Full names: Akona Zilindlovu Ndungane |
| Date of birth: 20 February 1981 |
| Place of birth: Umtata |
| School: Hudson Park High |
| Springbok #774 |
| Springbok debut province: Blue Bulls |
| Physical: 1.85m, 89kg |
| Current age: 45 |
| Test summary: Tests: 11 Tries: 1 |
| First Test: 15 July 2006 – Right wing against Australia at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane |
| Last Test: 24 November 2007 – Reserve against Wales at Principaility Stadium, Cardiff |
Factfile: Odwa Ndungane
| Full names: Odwa Nzuzo Ndungane |
| Date of birth: 20 February 1981 |
| Place of birth: Umtata |
| School: Hudson Park High |
| Springbok #798 |
| Springbok debut province: Sharks |
| Physical: 1.84m, 95kg |
| Current age: 45 |
| Test summary: Tests: 9 Tries: 2 |
| First Test: 21 June 2008 – Right wing against Italy at Newlands, Cape Town |
| Last Test: 17 September 2011- Left wing against Fiji at Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington |
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