Ahead of the League of Legends: League of Origin this November 17, the best players from the ANZ region made the trek to the Esports High Performance Centre at the Sydney Cricket Ground to train. And announce the captains for each team ahead of the playoffs this weekend at Riot Games studio in Sydney.

With veteran players ready to lead their teams, including VIC captain Samuel "Spookz" Broadley, NSW captain Brandon “Swip3rR” Holland, QLD captain Leo “Babip” Romer, and NZ captain Ryan “Chippys” Short.

The top two teams after this weekend will then meet in the League of Origin grand final, live on stage at Melbourne’s Margaret Court Arena on November 17 2018. This year's competition also marks the AFL’s first toe-dip into the world of esports, as the sporting body is partnering with Riot Games to bring the League of Origin to Melbourne. The home of football. And now, League of Legends.

“League of Origin has provided the AFL with an opportunity to engage with a new audience, and we’re excited by the potential esports presents. We will continue to grow and develop our knowledge within competitive gaming, to facilitate best-in-class live and broadcast events,” said Darren Birch, AFL General Manager – Growth, Digital and Audiences.