NAVI Dota 2 will compete at EPL Masters I after receiving a direct invitation to the playoffs of the $100,000 tournament. The decisive stage is scheduled to begin on August 9.

The event features 16 teams, with 12 starting in the group stage and competing for four remaining playoff spots.

NAVI will skip the opening stage entirely. MOUZ, Rune Eaters and Yellow Submarine have also received direct playoff invitations.

The Ukrainian organisation will field its current lineup of gotthejuice, Niku, pma, Riddys and daze, with Cy- continuing as head coach.

EPL Masters I provides NAVI with another opportunity to gain official match practice with the current roster, while the direct invitation significantly shortens their route through the tournament.

The playoffs will run from August 9-12 using a double-elimination bracket. All series, including the grand final, will be played as best-of-three matches.

The EPL Masters I champion will receive $50,000 of the $100,000 prize pool, while the runner-up takes $25,000. Third and fourth place are worth $13,000 and $7,000 respectively.

NAVI’s opening playoff opponent will be determined after the group stage concludes.