JDG Esports is reshuffling its VALORANT lineup with two new additions: BerLIN, a Taiwanese in-game leader poached from FunPlus Phoenix, and crownfisher, a homegrown talent promoted from JDG’s own academy roster. The moves land roughly two weeks before VCT China Stage 2 kicks off on July 9.

The updated five-player roster now reads jkuro, Yuicaw, zhe, BerLIN, and crownfisher, with bail serving as head coach. Coconut has departed the active lineup, signaling a clear strategic pivot for the organization.

Who are the new faces

BerLIN, whose real name is Zhang Bolin, is a 22-year-old in-game leader born on April 19, 2004. He spent a significant stretch with FPX before making the jump to JDG, and his career includes a brief retirement in 2025 before returning to competitive play.

Crownfisher, real name Li Ao, takes a very different path to the main stage. Rather than being acquired externally, he earned the promotion through standout performances on JDG’s academy team.