STAT ATTACK: How Libbok transformed into the all-round threat
In his 50 games for the Stormers thus far, flyhalf Manie Libbok has kept scoreboard operators everywhere busy with some prolific points-scoring.
Since moving to Cape Town in 2021 ahead of the first URC season, the 26-year-old has scored a total of 478 points in a Stormers jersey.
He has scored 10 tries, 109 conversions, 68 penalties and two drop-goals in his 50 games so far and shows no signs of slowing down.
The playmaker from Humansdorp scored 171 points in the 2021/22 URC campaign as the Stormers took the inaugural title and followed that up with 217 points in the 2022/23 campaign as his team reached a second consecutive home final at Cape Town Stadium.
While his goal-kicking has been a well-documented flaw, the flyhalf has put in extra work on this with Stormers kicking coach Gareth Wright.
The ultimate professional works as hard as anyone on his game and will often be the last player to leave the training pitch.
A natural ball player, Libbok’s pace and accurate distribution along with his improved kicking game make him an all-round threat to any opposition.
This season he missed the first six games due to national duties at the World Cup, but has scored 30 points in the three URC matches he has featured in against Zebre Parma, the Bulls and Sharks.
Libbok’s exploits for the Stormers resulted in a call-up to the Springbok team last year and he went on to play an influential role for the national team as they took a fourth World Cup title in France.
A humble player who does not seek the limelight, Libbok has established himself as the Stormers’ general and will be aiming to continue his remarkable record in the second half of the season.
Manie Libbok’s Stormers stats
Caps: 50
Points: 478
Tries: 10
Cons: 109
Pens: 68
DG: 2