Recovered from Injury, Anthony Ginting Leads Indonesia at 2026 Badminton Asia Team Championships

Anthony Sinisuka Ginting has not only returned to the court after a back Injury, but also taken on the significant responsibility of captaining the Indonesian team at the 2026 Asian Team Championships. The tournament is being held at the Qingdao Conson Gymnasium, China, from February 3-8, 2026. 

The PBSI's decision to appoint Ginting as captain is based on two reasons. Beyond his experience, this men's singles player is seen as capable of bridging communication between players in a team competition setting, which demands greater unity than just individual victories.

Ginting emphasized he has thoroughly prepared his physical condition. The Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist stressed that the team's interests come above all else.

"After maximizing my recovery, I am ready. Whether I'm fielded or not, everything is for the team's interests," said Ginting in an official PBSI statement.

As captain, Ginting's role involves maintaining stability in the locker room, especially after the national team endured four series of BWF World Tour tournaments since early January – a physically and mentally draining period for the Mental Pemain.

According to Ginting, communication is the primary foundation for keeping the team solid under any circumstances, whether in victory or when results are unfavorable.

"The most important thing is that communication must be strong. Win or lose, we remain one team and do not blame each other," he stated.

The Indonesian team arrived in Qingdao on Sunday, February 1, 2026, but the squad is not yet complete. Several players are still en route from Bangkok, Thailand, after competing in the Thailand Masters 2026. 

This situation makes the captain's role even more crucial in unifying the team's rhythm within a short timeframe.

Indonesia is placed in Group D and will open their men's team campaign against Myanmar on Tuesday, February 3, before facing the strong rival Malaysia in a decisive match on Thursday, February 5, 2026. 

These two matches will be an initial test for Ginting's leadership and the depth of the Merah Putih (Red and White) squad.

In the list of players brought, Indonesia combines Youthful energy and experience.  Ginting is expected to maintain the Indonesian team's focus in their quest for achievement at the 2026 Asian Team Championships.

List of Indonesian Men's Team Players for the 2026 Asian Team Championships

Mohammad Zaki Ubaidillah

Prahdiska Bagas Shujiwo

Anthony Sinisuka Ginting

Richie Duta Richardo

Leo Rolly Carnando

Bagas Maulana

Raymond Indra

Nikolaus Joaquin

Muhammad Rian Ardianto

Rahmat Hidayat