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The optimism around Indonesia's Thomas Cup squad took a hit with the news it must qualify for the men’s team championship without one of its best shuttlers.

Indonesia left for Asian zone qualifying in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, without top men’s doubles player Hendra Setiawan. He was hospitalized on Wednesday after being diagnosed with dengue fever and missing the team’s sending-off ceremony.

“It is so sad to know he was hospitalized because he is one of our favorites to bring victories to the team. It’s OK because we still have other players who are ready to replace him,” team manager I Gusti Made Oka told the Jakarta Globe on Thursday.

Hendra, who is still at Pondok Indah Hospital, was set to leave with the Thomas and Uber Cup teams on Thursday morning.

The Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI) still hopes Hendra can take part in the seven-day tournament, going so far as to purchase a ticket for him to fly to Thailand on Sunday.

“If doctor says he can go, it’s good. If he can’t, we prefer him to get well first,” Oka said.

However, Hendra did not sound as optimistic as the PBSI.

“The doctor told me not to go. I’m still waiting for my blood test results,” the 25-year-old told state-run news agency Antara.

His sister, Silvia Anggraeni, agreed, adding, “I don’t think he can make it. He told me he still feels weak.”

PBSI secretary general Jacob Rusdianto hoped Hendra’s absence would not hurt the team.

"Thank God it's still qualifying. I hope he can get well soon and be ready to play in the final," Jacob told Antara.

Hendra's absence leaves five shuttlers eligible for doubles play — Alvent Yulianto, Mohammad Ahsan, Rian Sukmawan, Yonatan Suryatama Dasuki and Markis Kido, Hendra's partner.

“I think we are ready to be paired with anyone on the team at any time. We used to practice together with different partners during our preparations,” Rian said.