Vidit Stars In India’s Victory

Vidit Stars In India’s Victory
By Arvind Aaron

Vidit Gujrathi scored an important round seven victory over Ortiz Suarez on the fourth board to help India defeat Cuba 2.5-1.5 in the World Team Chess Championship that is taking place at Armenia on April 26, 2015.

In match featuring the leaders, Vassily Ivanchuk’s win for Ukraine was neutralised by Bu’s win for China in the third board. China and Ukraine drew 2-2 to stay way ahead of the rest in this 10-team contest. They are leading with 11 points. India and other teams are sharing the third place with seven match points.

India takes on Armenia and China in the last two rounds. India won three matches and lost three and drew one. India had at best won the bronze medal in this event. Grand Master R.B. Ramesh is the coach of the Indian team. Deep Sengupta is likely to be rested for the last few games.

The only undefeated team is Olympiad champions China. Four of their five players are undefeated. They have given a solid display.

Sunday was a decisive round and saw many narrow 2.5-1.5 margin scores. Russia was beaten by Armenia, Hungary beat Egypt and USA beat Israel by the narrow 2.5-1.5 margins.

Standings after round seven: 1-2. China, Ukraine 11 each; 3-7 India, Cuba, Israel, Armenia, Hungary 7 each; 8-9. Russia, USA 6 each; 10 Egypt 1.