TNC Pro Team acquired two veterans to reinforce the core players of Work Auster Force for its anticipated MPL Philippines debut in Season 8.
TNC tapped the services of former Smart Omega star Adrian "Toshi" Bacallo and ex-Cignal Ultra captain Douglas "ImbaDeejay" Astibe as the team unveiled its full roster on Tuesday night, July 13.
The Filipino esports giant, which is widely known for its powerhouse Dota 2 squad, retained the mainstays of Work in Daniel "Chuuu" Chu (jungler), Frediemar "3MarTzy" Serafico (EXP laner), Clarense "Kousei" Camilo (gold laner), Patrick "P-God" Grecia (formerly rTzy/support) and Dylan "Light" Catipon (Unravel/captain-tank).
Rounding out the lineup are Der, Benthings and a yet to be revealed Singaporean player while Laurenz "Lift" Ruiz will remain as coach.
TNC's amiable owner Eric Redulfin previously told Manila Bulletin that they were planning to join the MPL which is reported to implement a franchise-based model.
TNC formalized its entry to the pro scene of Moonton's popular mobile MOBA through an announcement on Tuesday morning.
Parading the core of Work along with Toshi, ImbaDeejay and some fresh faces, TNC is seeking to bring its dominance from Dota 2 to Mobile Legends.
Work came through with a stellar debut during the MPL Season 7, proving to be a strong contender for an upper bracket spot although it eventually fell short against top two seeds Aura PH and Bren Esports in Group A.
Chuuu and the crew crushed Setsuna "Dogie" Ignacio's Nexplay Esports, 3-1, in the lower bracket first round before bowing out at the hands of world champion Bren, 3-1, in the next stage.