Springboks fly-half Manie Libbok makes decision on future amid overseas interest
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The Stormers have secured the services of yet another crucial star, with fly-half Manie Libbok inking a new deal with the Cape Town-based side.
After struggling to nail down a starting role with the Bulls and Sharks during his earlier career, Libbok has been a revelation at the Stormers and cemented his place in the starting XV, guiding the side to United Rugby Championship success in 2022.
His performance in the debut URC season earned him international recognition as he made his Test debut for the Springboks against France and retained his place in the side, earning selection for the 2023 World Cup.
The playmaker went on to feature in the quarter and semi-finals of the tournament as the Springboks defended their title and has since returned to shine for the Stormers in the URC and Champions Cup.
Libbok re-signs
After rejecting offers in France at the end of last season, Libbok has once again ignored the temptation of heading abroad, signing a contract extension with the Stormers until 2027.
His re-commitment to the Stormers is yet another massive boost for the side ahead of the 2024/25 season, with Steven Kitshoff and JD Schickerling both returning to the side.
Meanwhile, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Dan du Plessis, Ruben van Heerden and Evan Roos have also signed until 2027 with the side.
Pleased by his fly-half’s decision to remain in Cape Town, Stormers head coach John Dobson praised the playmaker, dubbing him as “one of the best players in the world”.
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“Manie is one of the best players in the world in his position, but more than that he fits our game model and understands how we want to play so well,” Dobson said.
“He has developed into a real leader in our group and is one of the key game-drivers for us, so to have him part of this growing group that has committed until 2027 is fantastic.
“We have all seen what he can do at our level and on the international stage and at 26 he still has plenty of rugby ahead of him. We are thrilled that he will continue to do his thing in a DHL Stormers jersey and hope to see him reach even greater heights here.”
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Libbok finished the last two seasons as the URC’s top points scorer and was crowned the URC Fans’ Player of the Season in 2022/23.
Looking ahead after signing an extension, Libbok is eager to see what the Stormers can achieve.
“Moving to the DHL Stormers had a big positive impact on my career and I want to continue to grow my game here,” he said.
“It is amazing to be surrounded by teammates and coaches that have such an exciting vision for this team and that is something I definitely want to be part of.”