K. LETSHANAA has all the makings to be the next big thing in Malaysian women's singles, but she must remain grounded.
After impressing the BA of Malaysia (BAM) last year, Letshanaa was roped in to train with the senior squad.
The 17-year-old is currently the youngest player training at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara as other juniors have not reported yet.
National women's singles head coach Indra Wijaya said Letshanaa should make full use of the opportunity given to her to make a strong impression next year.
"Letshanaa definitely has an advantage over her junior peers. I was told she is an exceptional talent.
"She started training with the national team two weeks before the Movement Control Order was declared in March.
"Now that she is back, I will do my best to groom her. She is still eligible for next year's World Junior Championships, and it will be great for her to cap her junior career with some titles.
"We will monitor her closely and plan her programme accordingly. Next year will be an important one for Letshanaa," said Indra.
National No 1 Soniia Cheah, reigning Sea Games champion S.Kisona, two-time world junior champion Goh Jin Wei, Lee Ying Ying and Eoon Qi Xuan make up the women's singles squad.
While pointing out that Letshanaa may not be included in the Uber Cup squad this year, Indra did not write off the possibility of having her play in more senior tournaments next year.
"I think it will be good for her. Once she has reached a level where she is on par with her seniors, she can go on to achieve greater success.
"As for the Uber Cup, we may have to leave her out first. She is still young and has many more years to go," added Indra.