Team Spirit members highlight the biggest differences between former midlaner, TORONTOTOKYO, and Larl.
TI10 champions, Team Spirit, entered 2023 with a new midlaner as they parted ways with Alexander "TORONTOTOKYO" Khertek and took in the former BetBoom midlaner, Denis "Larl" Sigitov. TORONTOTOKYO would then do a role switch and assume captaincy in BetBoom Team. According to members of Team Spirit, the two players are polar opposites when it comes to an aspect of their playstyle.
Larl is more aggressive than TORONTOTOKYO, says Team Spirit
In the third episode of Team Spirit's Lima Major vlog series, fans can see the routine of Spirit's players during the tournament. These include footage of them getting coffee, playing the Group Stage series, and their behind-the-scenes discussions after every match. The vlogs also included "questions from influencers" and in this episode, panelists Ephey and Sheever offered some questions for Team Spirit players. One of the questions directed was, "What is the biggest difference in playstyle between TORONTOTOKYO and Larl?"
To this, Collapse answered: "Larl is calmer than TORONTOTOKYO in terms of communication. TORONTOTOKYO can push the info but Larl is less persistent in that sense, he just informs us. In terms of playstyle, TORONTO is a farmer, he plays more greedily. But Larl can sacrifice his farm and go help us. (He plays for the team) Yes, that's exactly the difference." (minute 13:42)
Mira also added, "I think Larl plays more aggressively."
It is apparent that TORONTOTOKYO is very vocal about decision-making and he is active in making calls. It can be seen in TI10 True Sight that he was one of the players who communicated strategies.
His abrupt role switch from a midlaner to a position 5 player also shows his interest in leadership. It might also be that after winning TI, the 25-year-old wanted to explore something new.
Larl, on the other hand, is a 21-year-old player that has a quieter nature. He started his pro career with VP.Prodigy and shined during his time with BetBoom Team. He stated in an interview that he had never communicated with Team Spirit players beforehand, except for in pubs and when they see each other at tournaments. Nevertheless, their chemistry looks great as Team Spirit charges ahead at the Lima Major.
What's happening at the Lima Major
The first Dota 2 Major of the year is currently ongoing. Team Spirit survived the Group Stages and advanced to the Upper Bracket. However, the team lost the first series against Shopify Rebellion, dropping themselves to the Lower Bracket.
We might see the TI10 champs get eliminated today, or we might see the team pull off another Lower Bracket run. This time around, Chinese powerhouse, PSG.LGD will be their very first LB opponent. This modern-day "el classico" will be an elimination match and it is one of the most anticipated series of the tournament. You can watch the games live here.