Cover-Credits:
Team Aster has been with Sumail "SumaiL" Hassan for a while now, and so far, the results haven't been too bad. Following the Aster’s qualification for the Bali Major 2023, the team is currently competing in the DreamLeague Season 20's group stage 2. A recent interview with SumaiL at the event provided an overview of his time with the Chinese organization and whether playing in that region differs from the others. Adapting to China has been natural, according to him, pointing out that as long as the basic amenities are provided, it is not too difficult. As part of his interview, SumaiL also discussed the role played by coach Cheng "Mad" Han in bridging the communication gap between him and his teammates.
SumaiL says it was natural to play in China for Team Aster
SumaiL explained that so far, playing with Aster has been seamless and there haven't been any hindrances since there are facilities and freedom of execution.
“You know, it felt natural. I was doing whatever I wanted. They were doing whatever they wanted. It was a good flow state. It is a good flow state. I like it. And we usually bootcamp couple of days or a week prior in the same country. Right now, I am in Serbia but I was in China for almost three weeks.
You know when we wake up, we see each other’s faces until one hour before we sleep so everything between that is just Dota. We play video games at the end of the day. If the PCs are good and the desks and seats are good, you know, it’s the same country for Dota players no matter where you go.”
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When first recruited, there were concerns over what would happen since SumaiL and the rest of the Aster players did not speak the same language. While Aster has not been absolutely dominating, given this is only the beginning, the team has done quite well with a foreign player.
Now, as the players gradually learn how to communicate directly, Mad appears to be playing an essential role as a temporary translator.
“My coach Mad - the translator. He is working three jobs at the same time. So, he tells me what they are thinking, and he tells them what I am thinking, he is working overtime all the time.” said SumaiL.
Furthermore, SumaiL stated that the squad is not currently concerned about anything particular outside of the game. “Outside the game, we don’t have many problems, at least not that I am aware of. I wanna believe it. They are really good teammates,” he said.
Meanwhile, Aster has a difficult journey to the DreamLeague S20 playoffs during group stage 2 after losing three consecutive series. Its remaining matchups include Evil Geniuses, Team Spirit, Gaimin Gladiators, and PSG.LGD.
