BLAST announces exclusive India & Pakistan CS tournament

BLAST have announced “The Draft”, an exclusive Counter-Strike tournament open to teams from India and Pakistan. Carrying a $50,000 USD prize pool, the tournament starts with a 64-team online qualifier from either regions in late January.

Six teams from both the sides will advance to a an online group stage from which top three teams from either groups qualify for the Super Six LAN event held at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in February. BLAST states that each team will be given a “Counter-Strike legend” through a special draft.

“Providing emerging esports and gaming markets with opportunities to play on a global stage is key to their long-term growth. The Draft will not only act as an important pathway for aspiring players but will also provide an exciting tournament for global and local fans to enjoy.”
Faye Marlborough, Brand Director, BLAST

After DreamHack Hyderabad 2023, NODWIN hinted at a BLAST World Final 2023 appearance for Marcos Gaming. the now True Rippers lineup. BLAST has now revealed that True Rippers and Pakistan's WahWah will take the stage at the BLAST Premier World Final 2023 Showmatch on 17th December. Through fan votes, two BLAST Premier players will be drafted to both the teams in the show match.

The Draft

Regions

India
Pakistan

Online group stage

Top 6 teams from both qualifiers
Top 3 teams from both groups advance

Super Six LAN

Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
1 Counter-Strike legend drafted to each team
Held in February

Online qualifier

64 teams from India and Pakistan
Held in late January

Prize pool

$50,000 USD