Malady: “Five is the lowest-skill role.”
Team Yandex players Alimzhan “watson” Islambekov and Arman “Malady” Orazbaev spoke with OFFSTAGE about playing on the same lane and communicating during matches.
On playing on the same lane
Malady: Usually, when we’re on the lane, we understand each other without having to say much. We have a shared vision of how to play the lane correctly, but the more we play together like this, the quieter we get. <...>
watson: Usually, we just exchange a couple of words before the line starts, like, “Here’s how I see the line.” You know, we quickly discuss the line and that’s it. Then we just play.
On Communication During the Game
watson: Well, CHIRA_JUNIOR talks a little. Saksa talks a little, too. I’m quiet, and he’s quiet.
[So, who’s taking shots?]
Malady: No one—we play in silence. Yeah. No, actually, everyone just teases each other a little.
watson: Well, after the drafts, it’s mostly DiMan [DM] who talks to Saksa about the strategy. But after that, anyone can take a shot.
Malady: Whoever plays well is the one who takes the jabs.
On the five position
watson: At “five”—what’s there to it? It’s easy. Block the big one, push the small one—and that’s it. Then you place wards. Well, if they destroy them—unlock; if they don’t—the wards stay up.
[So, is there any way to refute what he said?]
Malady: No, he’s right. The “five” is the lowest-skill role, yeah. Nothing you do makes a difference. Whether you’re playing 0:20 or 20:0—it still depends on the other players whether the game is won or not.
[Are you serious?]
Malady: Yeah. “Five” is the easiest role.
About the guide to playing the five position
Malady: You come to the line and assess the situation. If your line is stronger, don’t block the big guy; let the small guy go unblocked. If your line is weaker, block the big guy; let the small guy go unblocked. If they let the big guy go unblocked, you can use your body to block him. If you mess up—no big deal. Oh, and using right-click—you know, right-click—that’s exactly the kind of thing supports often don’t use. They just stand there in the trees, but you have to right-click constantly. Pick up resources, push the opponent out. Oh, well, what’s going on there? By the sixth minute, the lane is already over. Go for the rune, then at seven—go for the vision ward. If you’re weaker—defend your vision ward and that’s it.
Earlier, Team Yandex support Arman “Malady” Orazbaev summarized The International 2026 in a team vlog, assessed the team’s performance at the tournament, and discussed the team’s results this year.
Photo: Valve.
