Former Wallabies star backs 'incredible' Manie Libbok to reach next level after Japan stint

Working under former Wallabies scrumhalf Will Genia, who served as a skills coach at Libbok's Japanese club Hanazono Kintetsu Liners, the Bok flyhalf was given a prominent role in the squad and was required to shoulder greater responsibility as the club's marquee player.

Genia, who observed his development closely, praised the South African's growth in leadership.

"He has learned to become a strong voice on the field," Genia told Rapport.

"Manie is a quiet person. He's a wonderful human being and, in Japan, he carried a lot of responsibility because he was our marquee player."

That added responsibility appears to have had a clear impact on his game and overall presence. Genia believes the experience will benefit Libbok in the long term.

"I believe it will improve his game going forward," he added.

From a technical perspective, Genia said Libbok already arrived with elite-level ability.

"When players reach a certain level, there isn't much you can teach them in terms of skills, especially someone like Manie, whose skills are world class.

"His ability to kick off both feet, his work rate, his attacking game and the way he creates opportunities for the players around him are world class."

For all his talents, Genia believes there is an added dimension to Libbok's game that has yet to be fully explored.

"I'd like to see him become even more of a running threat with ball in hand. He doesn't only have to distribute. That will build his confidence and allow him to become a senior voice driving the team at flyhalf.

"He'll be incredible," he added.