KUALA LUMPUR: The BA of Malaysia (BAM) should reassess their current training programmes as men's doubles pair Nur Izzuddin Rumsani-Goh Sze Fei have improved significantly since leaving the national body's setup.
That is the view of former BAM high performance director, Datuk James Selvaraj in a podcast with BH Online Borak Harini today (Dec 17).
Since turning professional at the end of August, Izzuddin-Sze Fei have made great strides, winning the China Open in September and also finishing runners-up at the BWF World Tour Finals in China on Sunday (Dec 15).
They have also overtaken two-time Olympic medallists Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik as the national No. 1 pair since breaking into the top-three of the world rankings this week.
James said BAM should take a proactive approach and look to improve their programmes.
"They look much calmer since leaving BAM. Prior to this (turning pro) their best achievements were only the semi-finals," said James.
"But since leaving, we can see a huge difference. They look relieved and more free, their performances have improved.
"They have won a lot more matches and are earning more."
James added that the duo's outstanding performances should serve as a lesson to BAM.
He stressed that BAM must focus more on player development and ensure they are in optimum mental and physical condition.
James suggested that BAM ropes in a psychologist to help their players.
"BAM have to sit with their main coaches, including Rexy Mainaky (Academy Badminton Malaysia director) and reevaluate," he said.
"If there are weaknesses, fix them. If it is already good, make it better.
"Strong teamwork between Rexy and the coaches is imperative."