After a surprising revelation last Monday, Talon Esports, the emerging Dota 2 sensation in Southeast Asia, has solidified its new roster for the upcoming season. However, the announcement was met with a tepid reception from the team’s die-hard fans on social media.
The organization had earlier opted to part ways with its promising talents, including Nuengnara “23savage” Teeramahanon, Anucha “Jabz” Jirawong, Worawit “Q” Mekchai, Chan “Oli” Kien, and Rafli “Mikoto” Rahman. This talented group has now found a new home with Serbian esports organization Aurora Gaming, bar Mikoto. While the decision was initially shocking, fans initially believed that Talon would continue to soar to match the region’s competitive landscape.
Last evening, via X, the organization officially unveiled its rebuilding phase with a fresh start, introducing a lineup featuring Eljohn “Akashi” Andales, Chung “ws” Wei Shen, Pang “ponyo” Sze Xuan, and Tri “Jhocam” Kuncoro. Despite a gap in the position 2, the team has enlisted former Army Geniuses player Yuri “Yowe” Pacana as a stand-in for the upcoming ESL One Kuala Lumpur 2023.
“The rebuild era has begun. We’re proud to welcome our new Dota 2 roster for the upcoming ESL One Kuala Lumpur tournament,” the organization declared. “It’s a fresh start, but we’ve done it before. Please stay tuned.”
While this marks an intriguing fresh beginning for the organization, dedicated fans expressed discontent on social media, deeming the roster reset a ‘massive downgrade’. The signings of ws, ponyo, and Jhocam were particularly criticized, as fans deemed that these three players have yet to reach the high levels set by their predecessors.
Nevertheless, a glimmer of optimism persists among some viewers who believe that the team could spring a surprise, recalling how Talon Esports turned heads with an underdog squad last year. As the team gears up for ESL One Kuala Lumpur, expectations are mounting for Talon, a team that has exhibited remarkable mental fortitude in numerous huge events this year.
