Blacklist, ECHO face uphill battles

Blacklist International and ECHO are facing uphill battles when they compete in the M4 Mobile Legends World Championship from 1 to 15 in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Blacklist, a three-time Mobile Legends Professional League Philippines champion, landed in Group A where it will face the John "Zico" Dizon-bannered Burn x Team Flash, Falcon Esports and Incendio Supremacy.

On the other hand, fan-favorite ECHO is tipped to have a handful as it was drawn against Indonesian powerhouse RRQ Hoshi, RSG Singapore and Occupy Throne in Group C.

MPL Indonesia head of marketing and business development Martinus Manurung said they are excited to welcome 16 of the world's most competitive teams who would collide for a share of the $800,0000 prize pool.

"We are excited to finally bring the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang World Championship to Indonesia, home to the most passionate fans in the community. The nation has been a key driver in pursuing the growth of the mobile esports and gaming industry," Manurung said in a statement.

Also seeing action in the M4 are Paul "Yeb" Miranda's ONIC Esports, Malvinas Gaming, MDH Esports, and TODAK in Group B as well as RRQ Akira, S11 Gaming Argentina, Team HAQ and The Valley in Group D.

"We are delighted that Indonesia was chosen as the M4 World Championship host country this year," Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy deputy chairman for digital economy and creative products Muhammad Neil El Himam said.

"The easing of measures will enable international fans to get up and close with their favorite Esports teams in person, with matches now going fully offline."