Google Play Arena has launched in India, bringing MS Dhoni into competitive gaming with his own esports club, Mahi Clutchers. Developed with NODWIN Gaming, the championship features six games and free online qualifiers. As a result, aspiring players have an opportunity to enter organised esports.
Registrations opened on October 23, 2026. Eligible players aged 18 and above can compete for a chance to represent one of six participating clubs. The championship will culminate in December 2026.
Google Play Arena features six games
The competition brings together six titles across different gaming genres. These include battle royale, sports simulations, chess and team-based multiplayer games.
The confirmed lineup includes:
- Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI)
- Free Fire MAX
- Moba Legends: 5v5!
- Real Cricket
- Chess through Chess.com
- EA SPORTS FC Mobile
This diverse lineup could attract different gaming communities. For example, cricket and football fans can compete through sports games. Meanwhile, strategy enthusiasts can participate in chess.
MS Dhoni launches Mahi Clutchers
Former India cricket captain MS Dhoni is entering the competition with Mahi Clutchers, a gaming club recruiting players through open qualifiers.
Consequently, aspiring gamers can compete for a chance to represent his club. Their progression will depend on their performance during the qualifying stages.
Five established esports organisations will also participate. These are Team S8UL, GodLike Esports, Orangutan, Revenant XSpark and Team Apex Gaming.
Together, these organisations and Dhoni’s club create a six-team competitive lineup. This approach connects emerging players with established esports communities.
How to register for Google Play Arena
Eligible gamers aged 18 and above can register for free through the official championship platform. There is no entry fee for participation.
First, players should visit the official website and review the rules for their preferred game. Next, they should complete the registration process and follow the relevant qualifying schedule.
However, registration does not guarantee selection for a club. Players must progress through the required stages to earn a place on a competitive roster.
When is the Grand Finale?
The championship is scheduled to conclude with a Grand Finale in December 2026. Before then, online qualifiers will give players an opportunity to demonstrate their skills.
Google Play is organising the event in collaboration with NODWIN Gaming. Together, the partners aim to create a structured route from grassroots participation to competitive esports.
For the latest information, players should consult official announcements. These will help them confirm registration requirements, qualification rules and event schedules.
Why the championship matters for Indian esports
India has a large mobile gaming community. However, aspiring competitors can find it difficult to enter organised tournaments and gain recognition.
This championship could help address that challenge by offering free entry and opportunities to compete. Furthermore, Dhoni’s involvement may attract cricket fans who do not usually follow esports.
Established gaming organisations could also bring their existing fan communities to the competition. As a result, the event may introduce new audiences to competitive mobile gaming.
Nevertheless, its long-term impact will depend on participation levels and the opportunities available to emerging players.
With six games, six clubs and open qualifiers, Google Play Arena offers a new competitive opportunity for India’s gaming community.
