The Indonesian men`s team lost to China in the first three matches in the tournament at the Macau Forum.
Indonesia`s Taufik Hidayat who played in the first game lost to the world`s third-seeded Chen Long 13-21, 8-21. The defeat brought Taufik`s match record against Cheng Long to 2-4.
China scored its second win against Indonesia after its men`s doubles Chai Biao-Guo Zhendong outclassed Bona Septano-Mohammad Ahan of Indonesia 17-21, 12-21.
Indonesia`s Tommy Sugiarto who played in the third match lost to Chen Jin of China 14-21, 8-21 in the men`s singles.
"We took part in this tournament to advance to the final round. As we have advanced to the final round this match no longer makes a difference," Secretary General of the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI) Yacob Rusdianto said.
For its part, the Indonesian Thomas Cup team did not field its first string squad by giving single shuttlers Simon Santoso and Markis Kido an opportunity to rest.
He said the semifinal round also served as a test case for the Indonesian team to explore his rival`s strength, he said.
The zone`s qualification stage will be held from Feb. 13 to 19. (*)
Editor: Kunto Wibisono
Copyright © ANTARA 2012
