With the inaugural Esports Nations Cup (ENC) 2026 set to begin, India has confirmed the coaching line-up for the tournament. Ahead of the event, the player selection process will start which will be held in Riyadh from November 2 to 29. NODWIN Gaming, the National Team Partner has appointed the coaches across major titles.
All the appointed coaches have been tasked for identifying talent, shaping strategy, and to build competitive squads before the qualifiers.
The appointment of these coaches marks a structural shift that aims to align Indian esports with the national-team model through defined pathways and accountability. Player selections will be completed by May 10.
India’s coaching line-up for 2026 Esports Nations Cup (ENC)
Moin Ejaz (NO_Chanc3) – DOTA 2
A 2022 Commonwealth Esports Championships bronze medallist, Ejaz brings decades of competitive experience.
Rahul (Ayogi) – BGMI
He is a former analyst and coach who led Blind Esports and Team SouL to multiple titles, including BGMI Pro Series 2023 and BGIS 2026.
Abhishek Bajaj (GodspeedxD) – VALORANT
Bajaj is known for his championship stints with Reckoning, Bleed, Velocity, and Grayfox Esports.
Pankaj Upadhyay (KAKA) – League of Legends
He is India’s most recognised LoL player with multiple international appearances.
Steve Vitug (Dale) – MLBB (MOBA Legends: 5v5!)
The Philippines-based coach made top-six finishes at world championships with teams like Omega Esports and Falcon Esports.
Pratik Mehra (Aurum) – PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS
The former Fnatic coach had led teams to victory in major tournaments like PUBG Mobile All Stars India 2019 along with strong international finishes.
Ashrit Goyal (notyAshritB) – Rainbow Six Siege
A South Asia Nationals 2022 runner-up with consistent APAC performances.
Nirjhar Mitra (jocse) – Rocket League
He represented India internationally and won the Esportz Premier Series 2022.
Gradyano Valendy (Rinnqt) – Honor of Kings
The Indonesian coach holds experience at the Rex Regum Qeon along with a global qualification pathway.
