Nine-Year-Old Indian-Origin Schoolgirl to Make Chess History as Youngest Player for England

Bodhana Sivanandan, a nine-year-old Indian-origin schoolgirl, is making waves in the world of chess as she prepares to represent England internationally at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary. This historic achievement makes her the youngest person ever selected to represent England in any sport.

Hailing from Harrow in north-west London, Bodhana will join the England Women’s Team at the prestigious event in September, where she will compete alongside teammates who are significantly older than her. Despite her young age, Bodhana is already making a name for herself in the chess world, with Malcolm Pein, manager of the England chess team, describing her as one of the most remarkable British chess prodigies he has ever encountered.

Bodhana’s journey into the world of chess began during the pandemic lockdown when she was given a chess board by her father’s friend. Intrigued by the pieces, she started playing and quickly developed a passion for the game. Her natural talent and dedication to chess have earned her recognition and praise, including winning the European Blitz Chess Championship in Zagreb, Croatia, last December.

The British government has also shown its support for the game of chess, with a significant investment package aimed at promoting and developing the sport across the country. This investment includes funding for elite players, expert coaching, training camps, and the installation of new chess tables in public parks and outdoor spaces to encourage more people to play and connect through the game.

Bodhana’s story is not only a testament to her exceptional talent but also a reflection of the growing popularity and support for chess in the UK. As she prepares to make her mark on the international stage, all eyes will be on this young chess prodigy as she continues to inspire and impress with her skills on the board.