Former Wallaby scrumhalf Will Genia believes Manie Libbok’s stint in Japan’s Second League has honed the flyhalf’s attacking game.
Genia works as skills coach with Libbok at Hanazono Kintetsu Liners, where former Wallaby playmaker Quade Cooper serves as attack coach. He believes Libbok’s form will translate to the Springboks in the upcoming international season.
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The 28-year-old Libbok joined the Liners from the Stormers at the end of last year with a mandate to help secure promotion to Japan’s First League – and he’s delivering. Before last weekend, Libbok led the division’s scoring charts with 153 points, including seven tries.
Genia told Rapport that while the physicality may be less intense, the Japanese game has allowed Libbok to refine crucial skills.
“It won’t take him long to find his feet again at Test level,” Genia said.
“From my experience, it’s important to have good training habits to get you ready for Test rugby. Manie takes pride in his preparation and yes, the rugby is not as demanding, but there is also an element of the game here that he can perhaps learn, and which he didn’t experience in South Africa.
“The physical collisions at this level are not as intense, therefore it’s more about skill, speed and tempo and how you create opportunities through game structures.”
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Genia praised Libbok’s work ethic and attention to detail.
“He has such good habits. He practices continuously. His attention to detail is excellent. His dedication to developing his game and sharpening his skills is exceptional,” the former Wallaby said.
Photo: @liners_players/X
The post Genia: Japan stint sharpening Libbok for Bok season appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
