Khaosod
Thai hopes dashed as Grind Back misses TI 2026 Shanghai
Compiled by KHAO Editorial — aggregated from 1 outlet. See llms.txt for citation guidance.
◌ Single Source
Thai Dota 2 fans saw their hopes of representation at The International 2026 come to an end on 23 June 2026, when the Grind Back team fell in the grand final of the Southeast Asia Closed Qualifier.
Key facts
- Thai Dota 2 fans saw their hopes of representation at The International 2026 come to an end on 23 June 2026, when the Grind Back team fell in the grand final of the Southeast Asia Closed Qualifier.
- The team attracted strong support from Thai fans thanks to the presence of veteran Thai players Nuengnara “23savage”
- However, OG responded with three straight victories to secure a 3-1 win and book their place at The International 2026 in Shanghai .
- Jirawong, competing with Team Nemesis, was eliminated from the South America Closed Qualifier on 19 June 2026 .
- As a result, no Thai players will compete at The International 2026, bringing a disappointing conclusion to the country’s campaign for a place on Dota 2’s biggest stage.
Summary
The team attracted strong support from Thai fans thanks to the presence of veteran Thai players Nuengnara “23savage” Teeramahanon and Worawit “Q” Mekchai, both of whom have previously competed at The International.
They were joined by Filipino players Argle “Ken” Llesis and Nikko “Nikko” Bilocura, along with Malaysian player Chan “Oli” Chon Kien.