Manie Libbok’s meteoric rise at the Stormers trumped Lappies Labuschagne’s revival in Japan, according to SARugbymag.co.za readers.
Libbok garnered an impressive 59% of the vote in the fourth and penultimate round of this poll series to discover rugby’s ultimate comeback story.
The first two rounds belonged to WP Nel, who beat Ashley Johnson by 8% before edging Raymond Rhule by 4%, but his next challenger was his last, falling to Labuschagne by 10% in the third round.
With a big scalp to his name, Labuschagne lined up Libbok as his next target, but his reign was short-lived as the Stormers flyhalf’s tale of redemption proved too strong for the former Japan captain who crashed out of the race, with Libbok booking a spot in the final round.
After failed stints at the Bulls and Sharks, Libbok relocated to the Cape in 2021 and relaunched his career under coach John Dobson at the Stormers.
READ: Readers appoint new Bok coach!
He was a superstar during the 2021-22 Vodacom URC as the Stormers powered to a maiden title in the debut tournament. Libbok finished the season as the competition’s top point-scorer, and later earned three Bok caps.
Growing in confidence this season, Libbok looks set to play another important role in the champions’ title defence and will be eyeing a Bok spot for the 2023 World Cup later this year.