Injured Ives out of Japan squad

New Zealand-born lock Justin Ives has been forced to leave Japan’s World Cup squad in New Zealand after failing to regain full fitness from an injury to his left knee.

He has been replaced by Yuji Kitagawa.

Ives hurt his anterior cruciate ligament during Japan’s 31-24 defeat by Italy in a buildup match last month, but he had hoped to be able to take his place in his side’s opener against France.

Coach John Kirwan said there was a possibility Ives would have to return to Japan for extensive treatment.

“He may need to go back. It’s very disappointing,” Kirwan said

The 25-year-old Kitagawa, who plays for the Japanese Top League club Panasonic Wild Knights with the nickname ‘Jumbo’, could join the team as early as Sunday.

AFP