Stellar Performance in Chess Olympiad Keeps India in Lead
India recorded victories in both the men's and women's sections to retain joint lead at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest.
In the men's section, thanks to stellar performances by D Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi, India beat Azerbaijan. Despite D Harika's surprising loss in the women's section, other team members stepped up to secure victory against Kazakhstan, maintaining India's previously unblemished record.
Gukesh and Arjun, who have both showcased impressive form throughout the tournament, continued their winning streaks, defeating Aydin Sulemanli and Rauf Mamedov respectively in quick succession. Praggnanandhaa secured a draw against Nijat Abasov and Vidit Gujrathi's game against Shakhriyar Mamedyarov also ended in a draw, but these results were enough to ensure an Indian triumph. India therefore remains in the lead alongside Vietnam, China, and Hungary.
The next round will see India take on the hosts, Hungary. Both teams are currently at 10 points so one will inevitably lose their flawless start to the Olympiad.
In the women's section, Grandmaster D Harika unfortunately lost to Bibisara Assaubayeva. Yet, Vantika Agarwal prevailed in her game against Alua Nurman while Divya Deshmukh split points with Xeniya Balabayeva. R Vaishali's win against Meruert Kamalidenova guaranteed Indian victory despite Harika's setback.
India, now jointly leading with Armenia and Mongolia, will play against Armenia - a team buoyed by their recent victory over China - in the coming round. This match-up promises to be intense, as it will inevitably end the perfect run so far for one of the teams.
