In a groundbreaking move for Indian esports, an all-female CS:GO team is gearing up to make its mark on the international stage. This talented unit will represent India in the Asian qualifiers for the 15th World Esports Championships (WEC), taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from July 15 to 17. Led by captain Swayambika Sachar, the team comprising Nidhi Salekar, Shagufta Iqbal, Dilraj Kaur Matharu, and Aastha Nangia will compete against formidable opponents from Kyrgyzstan, Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong China, and Australia in their quest for qualification. Let’s delve deeper into this historic moment and the team’s aspirations.
The Journey Begins: Asian Qualifiers
The Asian qualifiers in Riyadh present a golden opportunity for the Indian all-female CS: GO team to showcase their skills and secure a spot in the prestigious 15th WEC. The group stage matches will be intense, with the team going head-to-head against Kyrgyzstan and Saudi Arabia on the first day, followed by matches against Hong Kong China and Australia on the second day. The format includes best-of-one matches in the group stage, while the semi-finals and grand finals will be played in a best-of-three format.
Aiming for Victory and Inspiration of All-Female CS:GO
Team captain Swayambika Sachar expressed her excitement and confidence, highlighting their pride in representing India on the international stage. The team has been practising tirelessly, honing their gameplay, and working on improving their strategies. Their goal extends beyond securing qualification for the WEC; they also aim to inspire more women to pursue their passion for gaming and esports. The Esports Federation of India (ESFI) has been instrumental in supporting and coaching female esports athletes, enabling their participation on the international stage.
Support from the Esports Community
The Esports Federation of India (ESFI) recognizes the historic journey of the all-female CS:GO team and applauds their achievements. The team’s participation signifies the rise of women in Indian esports, and their progress is expected to inspire more women to pursue professional careers in video gaming. The ESFI extends its best wishes to the team as they strive to secure a spot for the grand finals in Romania.
Building a Strong Ecosystem
To further support the growth of Indian esports, the Esports Federation of India has partnered with top sports and esports communication agencies such as Artsmith-Concepts & Visions. These partnerships, along with support from Hama, FITGMR, Mandeha, Upthrust, and Inox as training, coaching, psychology, execution, and multiplex partners, aim to provide comprehensive assistance to the esports community in India.
A Larger Esports Landscape
While the Indian DOTA 2 team faced defeat in the Asian qualifiers, the nation’s male CS:GO team is currently engaged in their qualifiers. Notably, Tekken 7 professional Abhinav Tejan and eFootball athlete Ibrahim Gulrez have already secured their qualification for the 15th WEC. This edition of the tournament boasts a massive prize pool of $500,000 (INR 4.12 crore) and is set to be the largest to date, with participation from at least 130 countries across various esports titles, including eFootball, DOTA 2, Tekken 7, Mobile Legends, PUBG: Mobile, and CS: GO.
The participation of India’s all-female CS:GO team in the Asian qualifiers for the 15th WEC marks a significant milestone in Indian esports. As these talented gamers strive to secure qualifications, they not only represent their country but also inspire more women to pursue their dreams in the gaming and esports industry. The support from the Esports Federation of India and various partners underscores the collective effort to build a thriving esports ecosystem in the country. The stage is set, and all eyes are on the team as they embark on their historic journey in Riyadh.
Learn about male CS:GO here
