RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia fell 0-1 behind Japan in the second match of Group X at the 2026 Badminton Asia Team Championships (BATC) on Thursday, February 5, 2026, after 18-year-old women’s singles player Thalita Ramadhani Wiryawan was defeated by Riko Gunji at Conson Gymnasium. The result put early pressure on Indonesia as they rely on depth across multiple sectors to recover in the tie.

Thalita struggled to match the experience and attacking play of Gunji, eventually losing 14-21, 16-21, Antara reported.

In the opening game, Gunji controlled the rally with aggressive attacking clears and powerful smashes, forcing Thalita onto the defensive. A series of unforced errors and slower footwork saw the Indonesian teenager fall behind early before conceding the first game 14-21.

The pattern continued in the second game, with Thalita making several early mistakes and trailing 5-10. Gunji varied her serves effectively, limiting Thalita’s chances to launch attacks. Thalita briefly closed the gap to 10-11 but was unable to capitalize on the momentum. Further errors in returns allowed Gunji to pull away again to 16-12, before sealing the match 21-16.

The defeat handed Japan a 1-0 lead over Indonesia in the team tie. Indonesia will look to respond in the next matches, starting with the women’s doubles pairing Rachel Allessya Rose/Febi Setianingrum, who face Arisa Igarashi/Chiharu Shida.

In the second women’s singles, Mutiaran Ayu Puspitasari is scheduled to play Hina Akechi. Indonesia will also field Amallia Cahaya Pratiwi/Siti Fadia Silva Ramadhanti in women’s doubles against Kie Nakanishi/Miyu Takahashi.

The final match will see Ni Kadek Dhinda Ayu Pratiwi take on Yuzono Watanabe. ***