A method and system for improving performance of a compressor section of a gas turbine by diverting leakage air flowing from high pressure downstream of a stator vane assembly to low pressure upstream of the stator vane assembly from disrupting design flow patterns at a leading edge of stator vanes. A cover is provided at a forward face of an inner shroud assembly to prevent the leakage air from impinging on the leading edge. The cover may be provided at an outlet channel of a flow diverter mounted on the forward face of the inner shroud assembly.