The Open and Women’s sections will each have two teams representing India at the 44th Chess Olympiad. With five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand appointed as the hosts’ coach for the renowned competition. It will be held in India from July 28 to August 10.
For the first time, India, as the host, has the right to field two teams in each of the Open and Women’s categories.
Chess Olympiad: India announces two teams in the open and women’s sections, with Anand serving as coach.
It has increased the possibilities of the local team winning a medal during the 14-day tournament. Which is anticipated to draw top athletes from more than 150 countries.
Vidit Gujrathi, who led India to gold in the virtual 2020 Chess Olympiad, will be part of India’s inaugural squad in the open segment. Along with Pentala Harikrishna and Chennai-based Krishnan Sasikiran, both of whom have represented India on multiple times.
Arjun Erigaisi, 19, and SL Narayanan, 19, will also play for the first team.
Arjun has been impressive over the last year. And will be one of the players to watch when he makes his debut at the event. Alongside SL Narayanan, whose steady style has been quite good.
The second squad, on the other hand, will be made up of emerging stars. They made headlines in recent years with their regular performances, such as Praggnanandhaa R, Nihal Sarin, Gukesh D, and Raunak Sadhwani.
They will be making their chess Olympiad debuts. Adhiban B, who was a member of the Indian squad that won the bronze medal in 2014, will also be on the team.
“The teams appear to be strong, with a solid combination of experience and youthful skill. And I’m convinced that they will make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime chance.” “I wish everyone the best of success for the event and their preparations,” AICF secretary Bharat Singh Chauhan remarked.
After Russia invaded Ukraine, the Chess Olympiad was relocated and given to Chennai in March. Along with the Olympiad, the city will host the 94th FIDE Congress and elections.