ALOR SETAR, Nov 10 — Players from the back up squad and juniors under the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) will be able to train with the seniors at the Akademi Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur starting January.

BAM president Datuk Seri Mohamad Norza Zakaria said the move was to groom the players from the back up squad and junior squad by allowing them to train and spar with senior players so that they can be ready to be exposed at the international level at an early stage.

"We have world class players at the junior level because we have won seven world junior titles but cannot translate it to success at the senior level. Therefore, we must have a continuous support programme to ensure these junior players mature as world class players at the senior level.

"...we must have a consistent exposure programme for the juniors so that they can excel,” he told reporters after opening the Kedah state level AirAsia-BAM National Junior League at the Kedah Badminton Association Hall, here today.

The two-day league which started today features 186 junior players who represent 21 teams from 14 schools in the state.

The winners of the respective state league will play in a final round at the National level to be held at the Akademi Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Kiara from Jan 4 to 7.

"The league will provide a competitive platform for aspiring junior players to showcase their talent,” he said. — Bernama