The coaching team representing India for the inaugural Esports Nations Cup 2026 (ENC) has been officially announced, signaling the initiation of the player selection process for the upcoming global esports competition. The ENC is scheduled to be held in Riyadh from November 2 to 29, 2026. The Esports Foundation has appointed over 700 coaches from more than 100 nations, highlighting the global scale of this event. NODWIN Gaming, India’s National Team Partner, has selected coaches across various popular esports titles. These coaches will play a pivotal role in identifying talent, developing team strategies, and assembling competitive squads.

Key Appointments Across Major Titles

Moin Ejaz, known in the gaming world as NO_Chanc3, will lead India’s DOTA 2 team. With over ten years of competitive gaming experience, Ejaz was instrumental in securing a bronze medal for India at the Commonwealth Esports Championships 2022 in Birmingham. Rahul, popularly referred to as Ayogi, has been appointed as the coach for Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). Having previously served as an analyst and manager for successful teams like Blind Esports and Team SouL, his guidance has led these teams to significant victories, including multiple championships.

Abhishek Bajaj, known as GodspeedxD, will coach the VALORANT team and brings a wealth of experience, having won titles with several notable teams, including Reckoning and Bleed Esports. For League of Legends, Pankaj Upadhyay, recognized as KAKA, has also been selected. Upadhyay is known for representing India on multiple international platforms. Steve Vitug from the Philippines, under the alias Dale, has been appointed for the MOBA Legends: 5v5! title. His previous leadership roles with teams such as Omega Esports and Falcon Esports contributed to impressive World Championship results.

In the PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS category, Pratik Mehra, known as Aurum, takes the helm, with past achievements including titles with Fnatic and placements in significant tournaments. Ashrit Goyal, or notyAshritB, will coach the Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege team, bringing experience from notable top finishes in regional competitions. Lastly, Nirjhar Mitra, recognized as jocse, will lead India’s efforts in Rocket League, equipped with experience from the Commonwealth Esports Championships and Asian Nations Cup qualifiers.

International Coaching Influence

Additionally, Indonesian coach Gradyano Valendy, known as Rinnqt, will oversee the Honor of Kings team. His extensive background includes coaching Rex Regum Qeon and competing in high-stakes qualifications, preparing him for the international esports arena. The coaches have been selected for their deep understanding of their respective games, demonstrated expertise, and capability to nurture emerging talent in Indian esports.

Future Steps and Player Selections

The organizing committee stated that appointing the coaching staff is a significant milestone in preparing for the Esports Nations Cup 2026. The overall diversity of the coaching staff illustrates the global nature of esports, drawing from prominent organizations to develop competitive edges at the highest level. As attention shifts toward finalizing player rosters, the deadline for team submissions is set for May 10, with further announcements expected by mid-May.

The ENC aims to create a structured nation-based competition format, fostering opportunities for players while enhancing the connection between local and international esports communities. The tournament is poised to become a recurring fixture in the global esports calendar, allowing nations to showcase their talent on an elevated stage.

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