It seems highly unlikely that s1mple will be joining NAVI for the upcoming PGL Counter-Strike 2 Major Copenhagen 2024 as his sabbatical continues. The decision was confirmed by B1ad3, the NAVI coach, who stated that the team wants to avoid making frequent player changes before such a significant event. Building a cohesive team and being able to compete requires time, according to B1ad3.
For s1mple to return before the first Major of 2024, something unexpected would have to occur. Rebuilding the dynamics of each role within the squad upon s1mple’s return would take time, and B1ad3 is well aware of this.
NAVI has enlisted Ihor “w0nderful” Zhdanov as s1mple’s replacement. Although the 18-year-old Ukrainian talent has yet to play his first match for NAVI, he has already made a name for himself in teams like Sprout and Team Spirit. W0nderful has displayed an impressive 1.22 HLTV rating in the last 12 months, showcasing his potential to fill s1mple’s shoes.
It is important to note that w0nderful’s experience with the Sprout lineup may have limited his exposure to top-tier teams in the CS2 scene. However, he has managed to achieve a remarkable 1.77 rating against top five teams in the nine matches he has played during that time.
With the addition of w0nderful, the dynamics of the NAVI lineup have changed, requiring other members of the international roster to step up. B1ad3 mentioned that players have started taking more initiative due to w0nderful’s presence.
W0nderful has a challenging task ahead of him, and it remains to be seen if the NAVI roster can replicate their success with their newest member. Fans will have to wait until the BLAST Premier Fall Final 2023 to witness w0nderful in action alongside the rest of the NAVI squad.
As for s1mple, the anticipation continues for the return of the legendary player, known as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time).
Source: DOTESPORTS
