Cover-Credits:
Blacklist International, one of Southeast Asia's (SEA) Dota 2 powerhouses, has recently announced the departure of its coach, Michael "ninjaboogie" Ros. The team, relatively new to the competitive scene, was formed in early 2022 and quickly made an impact in the Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) Southeast Asia (SEA) Tour 3: Division I.
Their impressive performance secured them a spot at the Bali Major 2023. However, the team’s decision to part ways with its coach comes shortly after a disappointing performance at the tournament.
Blacklist International's Journey with Ninjaboogie
Under the guidance of coach ninjaboogie, Blacklist International had a good run during the DPC SEA Tour 3, finishing in the top 3 and securing their qualification for the highly anticipated Bali Major 2023.
However, the Bali Major itself did not go as planned for Blacklist International. Despite their initial success in the DPC, the team struggled on the international stage and ended their journey in the 13-14th position at the Major.
According to the announcement, the management has decided to seek other options for coaches in order to explore “different playstyles” and a “different approach to the game”, leading to the decision to part ways with coach ninjaboogie.
Even with the change in the coaching staff, Blacklist International continues to boast some of the finest talents in Southeast Asia. The lineup comprises skilled players like Polo "Raven" Fausto , Karl "Karl" Baldovino, Damien "kpii" Chok, Timothy John "TIMS" Randrup, and Carlo "Kuku" Palad, each bringing their unique strengths to the team. With their impressive roster intact, BlackList International now sets its sights on the next challenge - securing a slot at The International 12 (TI12) through the regional qualifiers.
The International 2023 - Southeast Asia Qualifier will take place from 27th to 31st August. Blacklist International will have to contend against the likes of Execration, Bleed Esports, and Team SMG in order to secure a spot at TI12. With only one spot up for grabs for SEA, competition will be fierce.
