Rowell Pillay led her team, Paradox, to victory in the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) women’s category at the Northern Cape Online Provincial Championships, earning colours for herself and six team Paradox members at the tournament, which ended on Sunday, 25 January 2025.
The Mind Sports South Africa tournament saw esports competitors from seven provinces showcase their skills while refining tactics ahead of the 2026 team selection.
Pillay, who also serves as the captain of the all-women Protea Esports Team for MLBB, was awarded Provincial senior colours alongside teammates Rashmika Nanakan, Ranya Sujee, Felicia Singh, Shanel Arunachellam, Amy Wilkins, and Kim Lu.
This performance follows Pillay’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) title earned during South Africa’s second match against Mauritius in the May 2025 MLBB test series, which was part of a successful campaign including clean sweeps against Madagascar and Ghana.
Meanwhile, up-and-coming star Irene Banda earned Gauteng Provincial (Senior & Primary) colours for her Clash Royale title, in addition to winning the Sportsmanship Award participating for the Old Edwardian Mind Sports Club.
The championships significant growth in representation, with female participation increasing to 27% of all competitors.
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Athletes who finished in the top three or the top twenty percent (whichever is the greater) of their respective events have officially qualified for selection to the national squad and the Protea Team.
Main Photo Caption: Rowell Pillay led her team, Paradox, to victory in the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang women’s category at the Northern Cape Online Provincial Championships, earning colours for herself and six team members at the tournament, which ended on Sunday, 25 January 2025. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: Irene Banda claimed the Clash Royale title in addition to winning the Sportsmanship Award, participating for the Old Edwardian Mind Sports Club.
Alicia Pillay
gsport.co.za
