CONFIRMED: Springbok star heads overseas
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.
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.'
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The South African
15 minutes ago
- The South African
'Rich Hilton College parents': TikToker mocks SA's most expensive school
A popular schoolboy rugby TikTok account has mocked the parents of Hilton College, who recently came under fire over their 'flashy' display of wealth at a recent derby day. The KwaZulu-Natal boarding school is the most expensive school in South Africa, with an annual tuition of close to half a million rand. On TikTok, the popular fitness and schoolboy rugby account @adafitfans took a jab at Hilton College's recent headlines. The account posted an AI-generated skit of parents of the most expensive school bragging about splurging cash on designer tents, helicopters, and even comparing themselves to the Springboks. Take a look… @adafitfans Who's next? #hilton #hiltonparents #adafit #schoolboy #schoolboyrugby #rugby #fyp #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #humour #fypシ゚ #rivalry ♬ original sound – adafitfans In May, Hilton College George Harris scolded parents of learners in the school in an open letter for their 'extravagant' display at a derby day against Michaehouse. This included hiring five-star hosting and catering services that showcased lavish displays of food like sushi, biltong, and couture cakes. The principal also criticised the parents for not cleaning up after the events. He wrote: 'When hospitality and generosity became self-serving displays of opulence, and began to pull away from what we aspire to be as a community. The principal added: 'Next year, can we ditch the opulence in favour of a wholesome hospitality devoid of showmanship and loud extravagance?. 'When the extravagance stretches into overconsumption, the message we send to our children is wrong'. Hilton College came under fire over its recent rugby derby day. Images via Facebook Hilton College bags the number one spot as South Africa's most expensive private school. Its annual fees for 2025 stand at R420 729, which includes boarding and tuition fees. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
15 minutes ago
- The South African
Mamelodi Sundowns close in on Basadien after shock training snub
Mamelodi Sundowns appear to be edging closer to signing Bafana Bafana left-back Fawaaz Basadien, after his absence from Stellenbosch FC's training session this morning raised eyebrows. The 27-year-old watched from the sidelines despite being involved in pre-season under coach Steve Barker just days earlier, a clear signal that negotiations between Stellies and the reigning Betway Premiership champions have advanced. Sundowns have long admired Basadien, alongside rivals Kaizer Chiefs. However, Chiefs recently signed two left-backs and dropped out of the race, unable to meet Stellenbosch's demands. 'It's one of the reasons Chiefs could not get their target,' a source explained. Highlighting how the Cape outfit's tough stance has pushed away most suitors. Stellenbosch previously offered Basadien a long-term contract extension in a bid to keep him. But Sundowns' reputation for activating buyout clauses may be the deciding factor. Sundowns have consistently shown their ability to land top transfer targets when they set their sights on a player. In recent seasons, the Chloorkop giants flexed their financial muscle by submitting offers that Stellenbosch FC simply couldn't refuse. This aggressive approach saw them successfully lure striker Iqraam Rayners and midfield maestro Jayden Adams away from the Winelands. With the 2025/2026 campaign and MTN8 kick-off looming next week. Sundowns have yet to make a major splash in the transfer market. but the Basadien deal could be their first big move. Basadien's training snub only adds fuel to the fire. Suggesting that the transfer could be wrapped up in the coming days. Do Mamelodi Sundowns even need Stellenbosch's finest Fawaaz Basadien at left-back? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
an hour ago
- The South African
Kobamelo Kodisang leaves Sundowns, returns to Portugal!
Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Kobamelo Kodisang has returned to Portugal on a season-long loan deal. Kodisang has officially signed for Portuguese Premier League outfit AVS Futebol SAD. The dimunitive winger had been touted to leave Sundowns after it became evident that he was not part of Miguel Cardoso's plans. Plans to permanently offload Kodisang hit a snag as he still had four years remaining on his deal with Sundowns. The Bafana Bafana international had joined Sundowns on a five-year deal but he failed to be a regular at the club. And the best way Sundowns could smoothly deal with his departure was through a loan deal. However, both Sundowns and AVS Futebol SAD reached an agreement to include an option to purchase on Kodisang's deal. The 25-year-old winger leaves Sundowns having only featured 13 times for them, scoring twice and registering two assists. Mamelodi Sundowns unveiled Kobamelo Kodisang in July 2024. Image: @masandawana/X Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
