Springbok star set for shock move overseas?

A World Cup-winning Springbok may well be tempted by apparent interest overseas at a time when his position appears under threat locally.

The Springboks line up for the anthem. Image: SA Rugby website

In an interesting report that has come to light, there is talk doing the rounds that Springbok star Manie Libbok is garnering increasing interest from clubs in England, France and Japan.

Despite being under contract with the Stormers until mid-2027, RugbyPass reporter Neil Fissler – who is known for his reliable transfer articles – has suggested that Libbok could be seen as an attractive acquisition by Leicester Tigers just as Handre Pollard gets to set to leave for a return to the Bulls.

Libbok has also been linked with French side Racing 92, and apparently that option could also still be on the table.

While the 27-year-old is said to be committed to staying in Cape Town, he has battled with injuries in recent times, and there is increasing competition for the Stormers No 10 jersey as Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is now being viewed primarily as a flyhalf rather than as a utility back.

Manie Libbok is still expected to have a key role for the Springboks this season

With the Springboks expected to rotate throughout the squad this season, Libbok, Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Pollard and Jordan Hendrikse are all likely to share game-time at flyhalf this Test season.

Rassie Erasmus’ team will start the international season when they take on Italy in back-to-back Tests on 5 and 12 July, followed by a clash against Georgia on 19 July.

Following on from the mid-year matches, the Springboks will then aim to defend their Rugby Championship title against Australia, New Zealand and Argentina between August and October, before the traditional Outgoing Tour in November.