RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian men’s shuttlers are preparing a new lineup ahead of a crucial Group D preliminary match against Thailand in the 2026 Thomas Cup. Adjusting the pairings is seen as key to securing points in Horsens, Denmark.

Indonesia’s men’s doubles coach, Antonius Ariantho, confirmed that captain Fajar Alfian will be paired with Nikolaus Joaquin as the second doubles in the upcoming match. The decision was made after Muhammad Shohibul Fikri was deemed unfit.

“We’re fielding the players who are in the best condition to face tomorrow’s match against Thailand,” Antonius said in an official statement on Sunday, April 26, as quoted by Antara.

This move also separates Joaquin from Raymond Indra, his partner since the 2025 Singapore International Challenge. The pair had contributed points for Indonesia in the opening match against Algeria.

“In terms of experience and playing time, we believe Fajar can help Joaquin perform at his best, especially if the match becomes a decider,” Antonius explained. He added that Fajar’s playing style suits the shuttlecock speed and court conditions at Forum Horsens.

Fajar and Joaquin are scheduled to face Thailand’s Peeratchai Sukphun and Pakkapon Teeraratsakul in the fourth match, which could prove decisive.

Indonesia has also made other changes to its lineup. Sabar Karyaman Gutama and Moh Reza Pahlevi Isfahani will debut as the first doubles pair, while Mohammad Zaki Ubaidillah will play as the third singles.

Jonatan Christie and Alwi Farhan remain in the first and second singles slots. Antonius emphasized that such rotations are part of a broader strategy to adapt to match dynamics.

Indonesia’s lineup against Thailand in Group D of the 2026 Thomas Cup:

• Singles 1: Jonatan Christie vs Kunlavut Vitidsarn.
• Doubles 1: Sabar Karyaman Gutama/Moh Reza Pahlevi Isfahani vs Chaloempoen Charoenkitamorn/Worrapol Thongsa-nga.
• Singles 2: Alwi Farhan vs Panitchaphon Teeraratsakul.
• Doubles 2: Fajar Alfian/Nikolaus Joaquin vs Peeratchai Sukphun/Pakkapon Teeraratsakul.
• Singles 3: Mohammad Zaki Ubaidillah vs Tanawat Yimjit. ***