On June 18, Beijing time, a news that volleyball fans were eagerly awaiting came: the Chinese women's volleyball team announced a 12-man squad for the 2024 World League Finals. This list is not only an affirmation of the players, but also an expectation for the future.
This year's squad was a bit of a surprise, with China fielding a predominantly substitute squad led by assistant coach Yuan Zhi, including experienced Olympic champions such as Ding Xia and Zhang Changning. Zhang Changning is not only comprehensive in technology, but also the spiritual pillar of the team, and is entrusted with the important task of captain. In addition to Zhang Changning, the main offensive line also includes Wang Yunlu, Wang Yizhu, Zhuang Yushan and Zhong Hui, who will dominate the attack on the field.
Wang Yunlu's form has been up and down recently, and her inconsistency can be seen from the one-stop race. She fell from the starting position and even missed the roster for the Hong Kong tournament, which was undoubtedly a huge blow to her. But there is no danger in life, if there is an outstanding performance in this finals, Wang Yunlu may be able to become famous and return to the stage of the Paris Olympics. Although Zhuang Yushan is mainly a substitute serve in Hong Kong, her offensive ability should not be underestimated, and this is also a good opportunity to show herself and prove herself.
When it comes to the secondary offensive line, II-VI, Yang Hanyu and Wang Wenhan have their own merits. II-VI has fewer opportunities in the sub-tournaments, and this finals will undoubtedly be a stage for her to prove herself. Her performance will have a direct impact on whether she is selected for the Paris Olympics. And if Yang Hanyu and Wang Wenhan can make a breakthrough on the field, then they can definitely bring problems to head coach Cai Bin in terms of selection.
In the setter position, the combination of Xu Xiaoting and Ding Xia will be worth paying attention to. Ding Xia missed the Hong Kong station due to illness, which gave Xu Xiaoting a valuable opportunity to play and performed well. It will be unknown whether Ding Xia's comeback can return to peak condition, which undoubtedly adds to the excitement of the game.
As for the receiving position, Zheng Yixin is firmly in this position, and she will not only need to maintain a high level against strong opponents, but also play the whole game without a substitute to show her physical fitness and stamina.
In the free man position, Ni Feifei's fate seems to be unlucky, although she has been selected for the 14-man list, she has repeatedly failed in the core 12-man list. Her experience may remind us that the world of sports is full of uncertainties, and every appearance can be an opportunity to prove yourself.
In the upcoming Grand Finals, the 12 women will not only have to face top opponents from around the world, but also face their own challenges. Every smash and every smash may determine whether they will be able to represent their country at the Paris Olympics. And we, as spectators, can we witness the birth of a new miracle?