Manie Libbok set to exit Stormers for Japan sabbatical

Springbok fly-half Manie Libbok is preparing to leave the Stormers, with reports indicating a move to Japan’s Hanazono Liners, following the Cape Town franchise’s confirmation that nine players are departing.

Libbok, a key contributor to the Stormers’ URC victory and a World Cup winner, is at the heart of a major squad overhaul ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Though still under contract through 2027, multiple sources suggest Libbok has requested a full release to take up a sabbatical in Japan. One insider remarked:

“He is at the point where he wants to prolong his career… he took a couple of big knocks… and wants to heal for a bit.”

The Osaka-based Liners are actively seeking promotion in Japan’s Rugby League One, making them a likely destination for the talented playmaker.

With Libbok sidelined recently due to a knee issue, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu has stepped in as first-choice fly-half, complicating Stormers’ future selection plans.

Director of rugby John Dobson acknowledged the conundrum, stating:

“We gave Adré Smith his sabbatical and it allows him to earn money that could change his life… Manie has been a big part of the success of our team… We haven’t sat with Manie and his agent to work out a plan.”

Despite Libbok’s contract through 2027, Dobson emphasized fairness and flexibility, suggesting a structured sabbatical agreement could support both player welfare and team stability.