Badminton legend Prakash Padukone said India needed to utilise its foreign coach better and that the players' overseas performance needs to be monitored to keep them on their toes.

Padukone said that doubles coach Hadi Sugiyanto from Indonesia must be properly briefed about his specific role and his targets.

"I don't think his [Sugiyanto's] services are being utilised in a proper way. Lot of time, he is lying idle," the former All England champion said in Bangalore on Wednesday.

"Badminton Association of India must consult him as to what programme he wants. He has to be given specific targets."

Padukone said monitoring of performance of players when they go abroad needs to be tightened.

"Lot of people are just going and coming. A little bit of analysis and review of performance is needed," he said.

"Players tend to take things for granted sometimes. If they are aware that people are watching, monitoring and reviewing, they will be on their toes."

He also suggested creation of a youth team -- on the lines of India 'A' outfit -- comprising those who had just crossed over from the junior level to nurture their talent. Padukone said greater focus is needed to nurture the talent of youngsters who have just crossed 19 years of age.

While juniors and seniors are getting good opportunities, the 'in-between players' are left in the lurch, he said.

"When they cross over from the juniors and have not yet made it the seniors level ... that's the time ... a lot of talent is going waste ... they are on top in juniors but suddenly they find they are nowhere," he said.

"A youth team can be formed for these players to nurture their talent and give them more exposure," Padukone said.

Meanwhile, BPL's sponsorship contract with Padukone Academy is ending this month-end, after a 11-year-association.

"We are looking for new sponsors," Padukone, known for his gentleman's attitude and commitment for the game, said.

"We have approached one or two [prospective] sponsors. We are expecting replies from them."