League Of Legends: From Gaming To Asian Games 2022, Team India Shines

The Esports industry in India has experienced remarkable growth over the past decade, establishing itself as a formidable presence on the global stage. With the rise of high internet penetration, affordable smartphones, and emerging technologies, a thriving community of video gamers has emerged, propelling the sector to new heights and achieving international success.

While mobile gaming dominates the Esports landscape in India, it is the PC game League of Legends that has brought the country international recognition. Despite the absence of an official server in India, the talented athletes of Team India have defied the odds and secured their place in the prestigious 19 Asian Games Hangzhou by triumphing in the National Esports Championships (NESC) organized by the Esports Federation of India (ESFI).

The star-studded lineup consisting of Akshaj Shenoy, Aditya Selvaraj, Aakash Shandilya, Mihir Ranjan, Sanindhya Malik, and Samarth Trivedi showcased their skills and determination in the Central and South Asia seeding event, not only securing favourable seeding but also establishing themselves as a powerhouse among the 19 competing teams.

These legends of the game will represent India in the hopes of making history as Esports debuts as a medal sport in the Asian Games 2022:

Akshaj Shenoy (Team Captain)

Akshaj Shenoy, known as ‘Kai’ in-game, serves as the team captain for the Indian League of Legends team. Hailing from Bangalore, the 21-year-old showcases exceptional leadership qualities and strategic gameplay skills, driving the team’s success. Despite the absence of an Indian server, Shenoy has risen to the top of the South Asian rankings, breaking stereotypes about gamers and excelling academically. He aims to pursue an MBA while continuing his professional gaming career and believes in building a community on the new SEA servers.

Aditya Selvaraj

Aditya Selvaraj, also known as ‘Krow,’ has transformed his gaming hobby into a relentless pursuit of passion. The 28-year-old from Bangalore, who works in game development at Bombay Play, has showcased his strategic brilliance and flexibility in League of Legends, earning victories in numerous high-profile tournaments. With a decade of experience as an Esports athlete, Selvaraj values the skills he has developed, including teamwork, communication, and discipline. He sees the Asian Games as the pinnacle of competitive gaming and aims to bring home a medal for his country.

Aakash Shandilya

Aakash Shandilya, also known as ‘Infi,’ has emerged as a star in the League of Legends Esports scene at just 21 years old. Hailing from Greater Noida, Shandilya has showcased his talent as a jungle player, consistently achieving victory in Indian tournaments. His versatility extends beyond League of Legends, as he has also triumphed in the PC game Valorant. With a Grandmaster rank and a top 6 South Asian ranking, Shandilya aims to make his country and family proud at the Asian Games.

Mihir Ranjan

Mihir Ranjan, known as ‘Lotus,’ has made a name for himself in the Indian League of Legends community as the only South Asian player in the Attack Damage Carry (ADC) role to reach the Grandmaster tier. The 21-year-old from Delhi has displayed his prowess in various tournaments, including Hearthstone Battlegrounds and Rainbow Six Siege. Ranjan’s multifaceted talents extend beyond League of Legends, making him a versatile player across different games. With his exceptional skills, he aims to leave a lasting legacy in Indian Esports history at the Asian Games.

Sanindhya Malik

Sanindhya Malik, known as ‘Deadcorp,’ stands as the highest-ranked South Asian player in League of Legends. As a top player, Malik has conquered renowned competitions, earning victories in tournaments like the AMD Skyesports PRO League and the Asus ROG LoL Showdown. Despite his success in the virtual world, Malik believes in finding happiness and balance outside the game to bring a refreshed mindset and positive energy to his gameplay. Alongside his teammates, he aspires to inspire aspiring gamers in India and leave a mark at the Asian Games.

Samarth Trivedi

At the age of 31, Samarth Trivedi, also known as ‘CrankO,’ continues to pursue his dreams and love for League of Legends. As a support player, Trivedi selflessly devotes himself to his team’s success, providing assistance and strategic guidance. He boasts an impressive track record in various international championships, including notable victories in the LOL India Champions Cup and the IGE South Asia Cup. Trivedi’s impact on the Indian Esports landscape is driven by perseverance, tactical brilliance, and a commitment to teamwork. He aims to make a profound and lasting impact at the Asian Games.

As Team India prepares to compete at the Asian Games 2022, these exceptional players hope to showcase their skills, inspire the next generation of gamers, and bring home medals for their country.

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