Insania: The Captain Defining Team Liquid's Dota 2 Era

Last Updated: November 7, 2025

In the volatile and ever-shifting world of professional Dota 2, few figures represent consistency and leadership quite like Aydin “Insania” Sarkohi. As the long-standing captain and position 5 support for Team Liquid, Insania has carved out a legacy not just through victories, but through resilience, strategic brilliance, and an unwavering dedication to his team.

Far from stepping away, he remains one of the most respected and influential leaders in the modern era, continually guiding one of the world's top teams through the highest echelons of competition. His journey is a masterclass in shaping a team's identity and a testament to the enduring power of a great captain.

The Architect of Modern Team Liquid

Insania’s career is inextricably linked with the core group of players he has led for years, most notably Michael “miCKe” Vu. Their shared journey began in Heroes of Newerth before they famously transitioned to Dota 2, founding a team that would eventually be signed by Alliance in 2017. It was under the Alliance banner that Insania honed his skills as a master drafter and in-game leader, forging squads known for their disciplined playstyle and innovative strategies.

In 2019, this roster made the monumental move to Team Liquid, a transition that solidified their place among Dota 2’s elite. Under Insania's captaincy, Team Liquid has become a perennial contender, consistently a fearsome presence at every Major and a regular qualifier for The International. His leadership has been the bedrock for numerous top-tier finishes, including a podium finish at The International 2022 and multiple grand final appearances at major tournaments, cementing his reputation as one of the West’s greatest captains.

A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience

Beyond the trophies and prize money, Insania’s legacy is defined by his character. He is a player who wears his heart on his sleeve, a quality that has endeared him to fans worldwide. His career is marked by moments of incredible sportsmanship and raw, unfiltered emotion.

Perhaps the most defining moment of his career came in 2019, where in a crucial, winnable game, he accidentally typed “gg” in chat, forcing his team to forfeit due to tournament rules. It was a potentially career-shattering mistake. Instead of crumbling, Insania owned the moment with incredible grace and humility. This act of integrity became a rallying point for his team and a lesson in sportsmanship for the entire scene, showcasing the character of a true leader who leads by example, in victory and defeat. He is a stabilizing force, a mentor to his teammates, and a respected voice in the community, known for enabling his cores to shine on signature heroes like Oracle, Dazzle, and Grimstroke.

Powering Through 2024 and Beyond

Insania's leadership has been more critical than ever during the recent competitive seasons. He has successfully integrated new, high-caliber talent like Neta "33" Shapira into the roster, maintaining the team's strategic depth and cohesion. Throughout 2024, Team Liquid has remained a powerhouse, securing impressive victories and high placements at premier events like BetBoom Dacha, DreamLeague, and the ESL Pro Tour, proving their status as a top contender for any tournament they enter.

As the team prepares for the pinnacle of the Dota 2 calendar, The International, all eyes are on Insania’s drafting and in-game calls. His ability to adapt to a shifting meta while staying true to his team's strengths will be paramount. He continues to be the strategic and emotional core of Team Liquid, the constant that allows world-class talents like miCKe, Nisha, Boxi, and 33 to perform at their absolute peak. For Team Liquid, the mission is clear: to lift the Aegis of Champions. With Insania at the helm, that goal remains firmly within their grasp, a fitting ambition for one of the game's most enduring and celebrated captains.