South African fly-half Manie Libbok heads to Japan

South African fly-half Manie Libbok has confirmed his move to Japan’s Hanazono Kintetsu Liners for the 2025–26 season.

The Springbok, aged 28, will leave the Stormers a year early under a deal that was due to run through 2027.

Libbok, who has 20 international caps, joins the Liners as cover for former Wallabies playmaker Quade Cooper. The team narrowly missed promotion to Japan’s top division last season and is rebuilding with several new signings.

They have also brought in South African lock Ryno Pieterse (formerly of Grenoble) and centre Burger Odendaal from Northampton Saints, and former All Black Peter Umaga-Jensen.

Stormers boss, John Dobson, confirmed the transfer, calling Libbok’s offer “eye-watering” and saying he believes the move will be life-changing for Libbok and his family.

Libbok expressed excitement about the challenge: “I’m looking forward to contributing to the team’s success and helping the club return to the top division,” he said. He also hopes to mentor young players and build a connection with fans in Osaka.

Libbok began his career with Blue Bulls in 2016 and switched to Sharks in 2020 before heading to Stormers a year later. He debuted for the Springboks in 2022 and scored over 100 points in his first 20 tests.