Chennai, July 20: Indian chess player Arjun Erigaisi secured a significant victory against world champion D. Gukesh in the fifth round of the Chennai Grandmasters 2026, taking a joint lead in the tournament. Grandmaster Nodirbek Abdusattorov also made his mark by winning with the black pieces, keeping him in contention for the title.
The prestigious classical chess tournament is being held at The Westin Chennai Velachery, with only two rounds remaining. Erigaisi is currently tied with French GM Alireza Firouzja, both holding 3.5 points, while Abdusattorov trails by half a point with three points.
With a prize pool of ₹7,500,000 and crucial FIDE circuit points at stake, eight grandmasters are competing in a round-robin format. After the fourth round ended in a draw, Abdusattorov attacked Indian GM Nihal Sarin, gradually tightening his grip and forcing his opponent to concede after 38 moves.
The match between Erigaisi and Gukesh began with an opening by Joshua J. Erigaisi showcased an impressive performance with the black pieces. As Gukesh’s accuracy diminished in the middle game, Erigaisi swiftly moved towards victory.
Maintaining his composure, Erigaisi capitalized on the clear opportunity to promote his pawn on the d-file to a queen, leading Gukesh to resign on the 63rd move. Firouzja, who had won the first two rounds, agreed to a draw against GM Dmitry Andreikin after 41 moves.
Results of Round 5:
– GM M. Pranesh (2) drew with GM Hans Niemann (2).
– GM D. Gukesh (1.5) lost to GM Arjun Erigaisi (3.5).
– GM Nihal Sarin (2) faced defeat against GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov (3).
– GM Alireza Firouzja (3.5) drew with GM Dmitry Andreikin (2.5).
Round 6 Pairings (July 21, 3 PM):
– GM Hans Niemann vs. GM Dmitry Andreikin.
– GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov vs. GM Alireza Firouzja.
– GM M. Pranesh vs. GM D. Gukesh.
– GM Arjun Erigaisi vs. GM Nihal Sarin.
Leave a Comment