Forget the doubts — Manie Libbok is the flyhalf the Springboks need now

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Manie Libbok has had to fight harder than most of the Springboks’ modern flyhalves to prove his worth.

His pathway to the No 10 jersey has been marked by continuous scrutiny and second-guessing, particularly around his goal-kicking and game management under pressure. However, if his recent performances — especially his electric showing in the Wellington demolition of the All Blacks — are anything to go by, Libbok has firmly positioned himself as the Springboks’ undisputed top flyhalf.

Against New Zealand in Wellington, the pivot delivered arguably his most complete game in the green and gold. It was a match where the Springboks dismantled the All Blacks with pace, power, physicality, and precision — and it was Libbok who orchestrated the tempo after coming on halfway through the first half for the injured Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu.

The 28-year-old made an immediate impact, controlling proceedings with a composed kicking game. His high bombs were well-contested by the wings, and as the game opened up, his trademark flat passes and intelligent running lines unlocked the Bok backline, creating numerous attacking opportunities for the outside backs.

Throughout the game, Libbok’s vision and confidence never wavered — whether it was cross-kicks to wings in space, slick distribution under pressure, or darting runs that turned defenders inside out.

He brought more than just the flair he’s known for — he brought control. A quality some felt was missing during the Boks’ earlier loss to Australia in Johannesburg. That loss, however, was more systemic than individual and the match in Wellington proved this point.

Libbok’s tactical kicking kept the All Blacks pinned in their half. His game management won the territory battle, and his sharp decision-making in broken play exposed New Zealand’s defensive frailties. The Boks weren’t just entertaining, they were ruthlessly efficient.

Importantly, this wasn’t a one-off. Libbok’s breakout performance against the All Blacks at Twickenham in 2023 — when the Boks hammered New Zealand 35–7 — showed his ability to thrive against top-tier opposition. That night, like in Wellington, his off-the-cuff creativity blended seamlessly with the Bok pack’s dominance, proving that South Africa can evolve without sacrificing physicality.

Critics have often pointed to his kicking inconsistency, but Libbok has made clear strides in that area. At the Cake Tin, he was near-flawless off the tee, and his tactical kicking was varied and accurate. He even casually slotted a left-footed punt to touch — another reminder of his rare versatility.

Most crucially, the Boks looked dangerous every time he touched the ball.

In a post-World Cup era where South Africa is evolving its style ahead of the 2027 edition, Libbok’s unique skill set stands out. No other flyhalf in the current Bok setup blends instinct, flair, and composure quite like him.

With Feinberg-Mngomezulu offering backline versatility and veteran Handré Pollard still in the mix, competition remains. But right now, there’s no question: Manie Libbok is the Springboks’ premier playmaker — and the more he’s entrusted with that role, the better he’ll become.

There is no need to revert to the old blueprint of raw power and goal-kicking dominance. With Libbok at the helm, the Boks score tries. He puts the players around him in good positions. The onus is now on the Springbok coaching staff to trust that game model in every match going forward.