RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s hopes at the 2026 Thomas Cup may hinge less on star power and more on team chemistry, according to former national coach Marleve Mainaky. He believes unity within the squad will be the decisive factor in determining how far the men’s team can advance.

Marleve, who guided Indonesia to multiple Thomas Cup victories in the late 1990s and early 2000s, said a realistic target is reaching the semifinals. Beyond that stage, he stressed, collective spirit often outweighs individual brilliance. “In team events, togetherness is crucial. We must at least be ready to reach the semifinals, and after that, cohesion makes the difference,” he told reporters in Jakarta on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The 2001 Indonesia Open champion also underlined the coach’s role in shaping an atmosphere that allows players to perform at their peak. “It depends on how coaches and players build a supportive environment so they can give their best,” said Marleve, who was part of Indonesia’s Thomas Cup-winning squads in 1998, 2000, and 2002.

He noted that Indonesia’s singles lineup reflects a natural blend of experience and youth. Veterans like Jonatan Christie remain vital, but rising talents such as Alwi Farhan should be given opportunities. “There must be a mix of seniors and juniors. Jojo’s experience is important, but Alwi is ready to be trusted as a future first singles,” he explained.

While Marleve hopes Indonesia can reclaim the title, he cautioned that team tournaments are unpredictable. “Of course we aim for the championship. But in team events, harmony is what matters most,” he said.

Indonesia enters the Thomas Cup without recent titles from the European tour or the 2026 Asian Championships, yet Marleve insists this does not diminish their chances. “Individually, our players are strong. With good unity, we still have opportunities,” he added, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience and player comfort throughout the competition.

The squad features Anthony Sinisuka Ginting and Jonatan Christie as singles spearheads, supported by youngsters Alwi Farhan and Mohammad Zaki Ubaidillah. In doubles, Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri lead the charge, with backup options including Sabar Karyaman Gutama/Mohammad Reza Pahlevi Isfahani and the youthful duo Raymond Indra/Nikolaus Joaquin.

Indonesia’s group-stage campaign begins against Algeria on April 24, followed by Thailand on April 26, before closing against France on April 28 -- a schedule that will demand consistency from the very start. ***