5 November 2026
The Hollywoodbets Sharks have secured the World Cup-winning Springbok flyhalf, Manie Libbok, on a multi-year contract. Libbok will officially return to the Durban-based franchise in July 2027 following the conclusion of his commitments in Japan. The playmaker is currently contracted to the Kintetsu Liners for the 2026–27 Japan Rugby League One season.
This move marks a second stint at Kings Park for Libbok, who previously represented the Sharks between 2020 and 2021. Head coach JP Pietersen actively targeted the flyhalf to drive the team's high-tempo tactical blueprint. The Sharks management views the signing as a core component of their long-term strategy to challenge for major silverware.
Libbok expressed strong enthusiasm for the move and the direction the franchise is taking under its current leadership.
“For this next chapter of my career, there is no club I would rather be joining than the Sharks," said Libbok. "This is an iconic club with a proud history; there's real excitement about the future, and I want to be part of it."
The flyhalf noted that his previous experience in Durban will benefit his return to the Sharks.
“When I chatted with JP and heard his vision for the team, I knew straight away that there's something special developing in Durban. You can feel the new energy and the culture building, and this is a club that isn't afraid to do things differently. I'm all in.”
“I've had a taste of Durban before, so coming back at this stage of my career with experience behind me, as the club starts a new era, means a lot to me," Libbok added. "I can't wait to pull on the black and white jersey, work with the coaches and my teammates, and give everything I've got for the badge and our supporters.”
Pietersen said Libbok's specific skill set directly aligns with the brand of rugby the coaching staff wants to implement.
“Manie is a gamechanger and a playmaker," Pietersen said. "That's exactly the kind of player we want driving our game. Fast, physical and relentless isn't just a line for us. It needs players who can bring this to life every week, and Manie does that."
The coach also highlighted the off-field value the experienced flyhalf will bring to the wider squad environment.
"What stood out most when we spoke was his hunger. He doesn't just want to join the Sharks; he wants to help build something here with the rest of the squad. We're building a team with a strong identity, where every player puts the badge first and plays for the man next to him. Manie buys into that completely. That attitude will rub off on the young players in the group, and we're really excited to work with him.”
Sharks CEO Shaun Bryans confirmed that the acquisition reflects the franchise's broader global recruitment and development objectives.
“Securing a player of Manie's quality on a multi-year deal shows where this club is going," said Bryans. "We've been clear that the new era of Sharks rugby is about building a team that competes for trophies and makes our supporters proud. In addition to developing high-quality players through our system, that means selectively attracting the best talent globally.”