Seven IGLs publish Open Letter protesting BLAST’s decision

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I find myself deeply troubled by the recent turn of events at the BLAST Premier Fall Finals. The open letter penned by seven esteemed In-Game Leaders (IGLs) has sparked a much-needed conversation about the integrity and fairness of competitive gaming.

The Open Letter underscores the unwavering position of the Involved Global Organizations (IGLOs) on not permitting the misuse of mental or physical health problems as a basis for approving an emergency replacement.

The BLAST Premier Fall Finals has begun with a contentious kickoff as seven In Game Leaders have united to write an open letter expressing their disagreement with BLAST’s choice regarding a questionable substitute switch made by Astralis. This letter, shared with HLTV.org, voices their dissatisfaction over the decision BLAST made.

Seven Counter-Strike IGLs post Open Letter Protesting BLAST’s decision

As a devoted fan, I’m expressing my thoughts alongside seven esteemed in-game leaders – KarrigaN, apex, Snappi, Aleksib, Twistzz, Snax, and Chopper, who have voiced their dissent against BLAST’s recent decision to permit last-minute substitution changes. While BLAST’s rules accommodate emergency substitutions due to mental or physical health issues, Astralis deemed their teammate ‘unfit to play’, leading to a request for a change that would enable Cadian to participate in the tournament instead.

In the open letter, the IGLs mention instances from the past when coaches temporarily took on playing roles because of roster restrictions, such as Heroic during the BLAST Fall Groups and G2 at the Spring Finals, who had to step in as substitutes due to unexpected situations.

The Open Letter

As IGLs, there are two points we wish to discuss concerning Blast’s decision that permits Cadian to compete for Astralis during the Blast Fall Finals.

Above all else, integrity must be upheld. The roster lock rules were set for this very reason. In two instances, coaches from Heroic at the Blast Fall Groups and G2 at the Blast Spring Finals had to play due to unforeseen circumstances. Previously, emergency substitutes weren’t allowed, but if br0 is truly unable to compete, it seems that Astralis coach Ruggah would be required to step in and take his place.

The results at Blast Fall Finals have a significant impact on the RMR Rankings, as well as a significant impact on the teams that are currently fighting for crucial points to qualify for Blast World Finals.

As a fervent supporter, I want to express my strong stand against using mental or physical health crises as a reason to bring in an emergency replacement. To me, these sensitive issues warrant the utmost care and gravity. If ever a player encounters an unexpected emergency, it’s crucial that we uphold their privacy and send them our heartfelt wishes for a swift and full recovery.

We won’t ask for proof of bro’s circumstances, instead, we offer our heartfelt well-wishes and respect to him should he indeed be facing an emergency. In line with past practices as stated by Blast, if no alternatives are brought in before the event, the coach will stand in as the main substitute.

Under the current situation, it seems appropriate for Ruggah to step in as a replacement player, provided he’s in excellent health and ready to perform.

Ultimately, if Astralis faces a penalty or sanction, we strongly encourage that any resulting fines be donated to a mental health charity instead.

Sincerely,

karrigan, apex, snappi, aleksib, twistzz, snax, chopper

BLAST has maintained their stance, confirming that they support Astralis’ emergency substitution decision.

2024-09-24 21:10

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