New Delhi, Apr 6 (IANS): Ankit Panth has been one of Indias most popular gaming athletes for over a decade. Going by the screen name ‘V3nom, Ankit and his friends of Team Brutality have steadily climbed up the rungs of the Counter-Strike scene. While he has faced some tough opponents in the professional gaming space, he also makes it a point to engage with people who love gaming but dont pursue it as a career option. And now, he has challenged Rajasthan Royals player Riyan Parag.

Ankit, India's first Red Bull Athlete in gaming, regularly streams his casual games, meets with fans at conventions, and shares tips with those who want to get better at Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. While doing so, he has rubbed shoulders with many capable casual gamers and found them to be a good match. Similarly, he was able to watch the matches of Riyan.

Going by ‘V1be' on screen, Riyan has been an avid gamer and cites it as one of three things he can't live without (alongside cricket and his family). On seeing that Riyan is just as skilled with the mouse and keyboard as he is with bat and ball, Ankit was supremely impressed and decided to challenge him to a face-off called CS:GO Frag Out. The challenge will be played out on April 12 at 6 p.m. in a best-of-five format.

Some of Ankit and Riyan's friends will be part of their five-a-side teams, include members of Team Brutality. Ankit will also be picking two fans to be part of the teams. The matches will be streamed live on Ankit's YouTube channel.