- Praggnanandhaa gains a 45-minute lead in Round 1 against Tissir Mohamed.
- Arjun Erigaisi forces his opponent into a difficult position.
- Indian chess team faces Morocco in Round 1 of the 45th Chess Olympiad.
The Indian chess team began their campaign in the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad 2024 with a dominant showing in the first round against Morocco.
Praggnanandhaa, stepping up to Board 1, capitalized on his opponent’s slower play, gaining a 45-minute time advantage, which could be critical as the game progresses.
Praggnanandhaa’s Time Advantage Boosts India’s Performance at Chess Olympiad
India, seeded second in the open section, made some adjustments for this match, with Gukesh sitting out Round 1. The Swiss system format, which includes 11 rounds, adds excitement as teams battle across a variety of matchups. India’s lineup for the opening round consisted of Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, and Pentala Harikrishna, who all aimed for a strong start against Morocco
Arjun Erigaisi, playing on Board 2, showcased a tactical masterpiece by forcing his rival into a difficult defensive position. As the pressure mounted, Arjun’s superior board control made it challenging for his opponent to find a way out, a display of Arjun’s growing reputation as a sharp and creative player.
Vidit Gujrathi and Pentala Harikrishna also stepped up for the Indian side, providing stability and resilience on their respective boards. With Gukesh set to rejoin the team in upcoming rounds, India’s lineup remains formidable, and the players will be eager to continue their momentum into the next round.
The Swiss system format, used for this Olympiad, ensures that the competition remains highly unpredictable as teams cannot face each other in a full round-robin format. With 196 teams in the open section, every round counts toward the final outcome, keeping the tension high for both players and fans alike.
As the Olympiad progresses, India’s early lead and solid performances set the tone for a promising campaign. The team’s tactical depth and time management will be critical in their pursuit of the title.
“Chess is the struggle against the error.” — Johannes Zukertort
