JAPAN ace spiker and Filipino fans' favorite Ran Takahashi has been ruled out from the Manila leg of the 2024 Volleyball Nations League (VNL).
After experiencing physical discomfort in their opening-day loss to Canada last Wednesday, Takahashi still played the entirety of the match with 13 points to his name.
But hours before Japan's second assignment of the Manila leg vs. the Netherlands on Friday, the Japan Volleyball Association confirmed the spiker's exit from the tournament squad.
He will be replaced by another outside hitter in Shomi Tomita.
Crucial contests still ahead for Japan
Ryujin Nippon has already booked its spot in next month's Summer Olympics in Paris, but has yet to secure a VNL quarterfinals berth.
Their remaining matchups with the Netherlands, France, and USA are all crucial contests, as they currently sit in seventh place with a 6-3 card.
Only the top eight teams will advance to the VNL Finals, with Japan looking to secure another podium finish after clinching the bronze medal last year.
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