The overseas departure of Stormers and Springbok star Manie Libbok has become a completely ‘open secret’, but it has now been officially confirmed that he will be joining the Hanazono Liners in Osaka, Japan, on a permanent deal.
Libbok will effectively replace Wallabies legend Quade Cooper, who left the club at the end of this past season.
The Stormers have granted Libbok an early from his contract, which was set to run until 2027.
Stormers accept exit of the Springbok star
Recently, Stormers coach John Dobson said that the big money offer from Japan, – coupled with the decision to install Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu as the team’s first-choice flyhalf – all added to the acceptance that Libbok should be allowed to pursue his move abroad.
“Manie is a big loss,” Dobson said. “We had a fantastic journey with him, and we would’ve liked to keep him. However, there are two aspects to consider. Sacha, and with good reason, is absolutely adamant about playing flyhalf and he is entitled to it.
“Sacha also doesn’t want to be a guy who comes off the bench as a fullback. It was going to be tricky. At the same time, Manie received an offer from Japan that would be described as eye-watering. It would change his whole family.
“We were entitled to do so (hold him to his Stormers contract). But we weren’t going to say it and tell him to forego the money, and that he will no longer possibly be our first-choice flyhalf.
“Manie is going with our blessing, thanks, and an open invitation to return which we had a fantastic discussion around it. When he comes back, he will return here. We could not deprive him of this opportunity.”
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