GUKESH LETS OPPORTUNITY SLIP

Inaccurate readings, slight blunders from both sides hallmark of Game 7 as it ends in another draw

- SWAROOP SWAMINATHAN

A LESSER-KNOWN tactical innovation, a series of mistakes and an Everestian defence were the hallmarks of game seven of the World Chess Championship between Ding Liren and D Gukesh.

The final result -- after 72 moves and over five hours -- was a draw. But it doesn't even begin to capture the true nature of a wild game seven. It was best summed up by Ding Liren who said he was 'beaten multiple times' during the game.

The World champion lost after the Opening. He was also lost and down on the clock after the middle game.

Yet, he somehow tapped into the deepest corner of his mental reserves to save half a point when the engine was favouring Gukesh for the vast majority of the encounter. The Indian, just after time control, had made two inaccuracies in three moves. When he had a significant advantage, he moved 44...Ke1 when the computer had suggested a trade of his white light-coloured bishop for Liren's pesky knight.