Indians Continue To Make Strong Moves On 64 Squares

The young brigade, led by Praggnanandhaa and Gukesh, made the world sit up and take note

- Rakesh Rao

Indian chess players continued to make some strong moves in 2019 and contributed immensely to raising the nation’s profile as a potential global powerhouse in the sport.

The year, that began with D. Gukesh becoming the second-youngest Grandmaster on the all-time list, ended with K. Humpy winning the Women’s world rapid title. If Gukesh gave an indication of joyous times to come for Indian chess lovers, Humpy turned the clock back by winning two titles and finishing runner-up once, in her glorious comeback season.

Grandmasters’ count rose by seven to reach 65! The young brigade, led by R. Praggnanandhaa, made the world sit up and take note. As World champion Magnus Carlsen said, “India is going to be the strongest chess country in the world. There are just so many fearless young players. It just remains to be seen who will take the step up to the very highest level.”

With Viswanathan Anand, 50, still part of the world’s elite, the younger generation has no dearth of inspiration.

Medals galore