India continued its strong campaign at the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand as both the men’s and women’s teams registered victories in the third round. The men’s team defeated Italy 3-1, while the women’s side recorded an impressive 3.5-0.5 win over Greece.
World champion D Gukesh and Nihal Sarin played key roles in India’s victory against Italy, with both players securing wins. The women’s team also maintained its strong run, conceding just half a point against Greece.
Gukesh and Nihal Lead India’s Men’s Team
R Praggnanandhaa was held to a draw by Lorenzo Lodici, marking his second consecutive game without a win. However, India recovered strongly through Nihal Sarin and D Gukesh.
Nihal defeated Francesco Sonis, while Gukesh overcame Sabino Brunello with the black pieces. After a couple of disappointing results, Gukesh produced a commanding performance and returned to his best form against Brunello.
Arjun Erigaisi also drew his game against Luca Moroni Jr. after facing some difficult moments during the encounter. The result gave India a convincing 3-1 victory over Italy, whose lineup consisted entirely of Grandmasters.
Indian Women Continue Dominant Run
The Indian women’s team produced another strong performance against Greece, winning 3.5-0.5.
Koneru Humpy defeated Stavroula Tsolakidou in a one-sided contest, while Chess World Cup winner Divya Deshmukh was held to a draw by Anastasia Avramidou.
Vantika Agrawal added another full point for India by defeating Ekaterini Pavlidou. On the fourth board, B Savitha Shri defeated Antonia Christodoulaki to complete a hat-trick of victories in the tournament.
Crucial Rounds Ahead for India
With eight rounds still remaining in the 11-round Chess Olympiad, the competition is set to become increasingly challenging as the leading teams begin facing one another.
India’s performances in the next three rounds could play an important role in determining its position in the tournament. India had enjoyed a historic campaign at the 2024 Chess Olympiad, winning gold medals in both the open and women’s sections.
Round 3 Results
Open Section: India defeated Italy 3-1
R Praggnanandhaa drew with Lorenzo Lodici; Arjun Erigaisi drew with Luca Moroni Jr.; Nihal Sarin defeated Francesco Sonis; D Gukesh defeated Sabino Brunello.
Women’s Section: India defeated Greece 3.5-0.5
Koneru Humpy defeated Stavroula Tsolakidou; Divya Deshmukh drew with Anastasia Avramidou; Vantika Agrawal defeated Ekaterini Pavlidou; B Savitha Shri defeated Antonia Christodoulaki.