Manie Libbok is returning to South Africa on a multi-year deal with the Sharks, rejoining the Durban franchise he represented in 2020 and 2021 after two seasons with Japanese club the Kintetsu Liners.
The 29-year-old fly-half, capped 30 times for the Springboks, will link up with the Sharks ahead of the 2027/28 season. He departed South African rugby after a spell at the Stormers that included the 2023 URC title.
Libbok said contact with head coach JP Pietersen was decisive in his choice of club. "When I chatted with JP and heard his vision for the team, I knew straight away that there's something special developing here, and I want to be part of it," he said. "I'm all in."
Pietersen described the signing as central to the identity the Sharks are trying to build. "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. What stood out most when we spoke was his hunger."
CEO Shaun Bryans framed the deal as a statement of ambition. "Securing a player of Manie's quality on a multi-year deal shows where this club is going. Manie chose the Hollywoodbets Sharks because he believes in the vision, the coaching team and the direction of this club."
Libbok joins a Sharks fly-half group that currently includes Jordan Hendrikse, Vusi Moyo, Gianni Lombard, and Siya Masuku.