OG have already started to fill their ranks after their numbers dropped to two recently. The first one to join is former EG mid laner Syed Sumail "SumaiL" Hassan.
The best choice
SumaiL is probably the best mid-lane player currently without a team and OG have doubtlessly seen that. In their own words:
“Pretty sure we don’t need to introduce Sumail “Suma1L” Hassan to any of you anymore. On top of being one of the best core players this scene has ever carved, as well as the youngest TI winner there is, he’s also powered by an insatiable will to win and perform at the highest level.”
Evil Geniuses was the first team for SumaiL where he spent most of his career so far. Starting in 2015 and winning The International 2016 at the age of 16, he also made most of his earning with the North American organization. In 2019, he decided to take a break and moved into an inactive role and played as a temporary stand-in in Quincy Crew. That was back in October last year. Now, January 28, 2020, marks his official departure from Evil Geniuses. With SumaiL joining in, the roster of OG is as follows:
- Syed Sumail "SumaiL" Hassan – position 1
- Topias “Topson” Taavitsainen – position 2
- Johan “N0tail” Sundstein – position 5
As it becomes obvious, the team’s still missing two members on positions 3 and 4. Usually, it might be confusing what position SumaiL might play since Topson is also a mid-lane player. Thankfully, OG clarified it with their recent Tweet. By the looks of it, SumaiL will be taking the carry position.
Once a rival who lived evil he's now a precious ally who wants his crown back. It is our honor to welcome our new carry player. Please welcome OG. @SumaaaaiL#DreamOGSee more: https://t.co/Ah3EsQ8de7 pic.twitter.com/p7at45cvec
— OG (@OGesports) January 28, 2020
OG’s struggle
Similar to what happened in 2018, after winning The International 2019, OG have had trouble making their way back into the Dota 2 scene. Their most recent performance was at Midas Mode 2 back in October 2019 where they finished last in fourth place, winning just a single game against Alliance. In the previous season, OG had an amazing run through the last-chance open qualifiers. They fought their way to The International where they claimed the title for the first time.
Hopefully, 2020 would be a better year for them and they’ll have more success in the upcoming tournaments.