K. Letshanaa has rejoined the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) in a move that the national body described as a good moment after the women’s singles shuttler clinched the Uganda International title.
Letshanaa was imperious in a 21-11, 21-8 victory over Turkey’s Neslihan Yigit to claim the crown on Sunday.
Her victory was made sweeter after BAM announced her return to their stable the following day.
National singles coaching director Wong Choong Hann said they had been monitoring Letshaana’s progress since she left the BAM early last year.
“We have been tracking and monitoring her progress for sometime. We had a discussion to bring her back and sent out the invitation letter recently.
“We can see she is more mature, and more determined in what she wants. The victory in Uganda was a great show from her and a much deserved win.
“It’s a good moment for her to return. She has just won and will now return with a glow on her face,” Wong told Stadium Astro.
Things had not gone smooth sailing for the 20-year-old in recent times, who quit the national team due to a back injury.
From then, it was many trips to the rehabilitation centre to get to full recovery, and in the process she also shed six kilograms to get in shape.
Funding was also a big issue for the shuttler as a professional, and she had plans to use crowdfunding to compete in events.
Rejoining the national body should alleviate her from tournament funding.
Wong said the coaches would be ready to form a long-term plan for the Selangor-born to make her a better player.
“Of course, this will not be a one way planning. We want to sit and hear her plans and schedule if she has one already. We must first discuss and both parties to give their ideas on what would be best for her,” he said.
Wong ruled out Letshanaa’s participation at the upcoming Cambodia SEA Games in May as the name list had been submitted prior, but added there will be plenty of other competition opportunities for her.
Letshanaa will report for duty at the Academy Badminton Malaysia on Wednesday.
