Nova Esports moves SWERL to bench, promotes OBONE to Valorant main roster

Chinese team Nova Esports has made roster adjustments ahead of VCT 2025: China Stage 1, benching Mohammad Ali "Swerl" Kobraee while promoting Chen "OBONE" Yijie to the starting lineup.

Just four days before their first match at VCT 2025: China Stage 1, Nova Esports announced the roster shake-up, sending Swerl to the bench and bringing OBONE back into the starting five. Swerl had been part of the main roster since April 2024, but the team failed to achieve notable results in regional leagues, only showing potential in off-season tournaments. OBONE’s return, as a long-time member of the club, could bring a fresh tactical approach and push the team closer to their first international event.

Current Nova Esports Valorant Roster:

Wang "cb" Qingchuan
Ye "o0o0o" Xiaodong
Chen "OBONE" Yijie
Guang "GuanG" Honglin
Zhao "Ezeir" Zejun

On March 15, Nova Esports will begin their VCT 2025: China Stage 1 run in Omega Group, facing Dragon Race Gaming in their opening match. The tournament will determine three slots for Masters Toronto and award China Points. Follow the event’s progress on our portal and via this link.