Aravindh Chithambaram Ends Arjun Erigaisi’s Unbeaten Run, Throws Open Chennai Grand Masters Title Race (Pic Credit – X)

Aravindh Chithambaram shakes up Chennai Grand Masters title race with win over Arjun Erigaisi

In a thrilling sixth round of the Chennai Grand Masters tournament, Grandmaster M Aravindh Chithambaram made a bold statement by ending the unbeaten run of table topper Arjun Erigaisi. With this victory, Aravindh has thrown open the title race, with Arjun and Levon Aronian now in joint lead with four points each.

Aravindh, who had drawn all his earlier matches, displayed exceptional skill and strategy as he outplayed Arjun in a tense battle that lasted 48 moves. Playing white, Aravindh seized the advantage early on and never let go, eventually securing a crucial win.

Meanwhile, in another key matchup, Vidit Gujrathi managed to hold Levon Aronian to a draw after a grueling 70-move encounter. With this result, Aronian and Arjun find themselves tied at the top of the standings, with Aravindh hot on their heels.

The Chennai Grand Masters tournament boasts a highly competitive field this year, with a rating average of 2729. The debut of the Challengers category has also provided a platform for emerging Indian talent to showcase their skills against top-class competition.

In the Challengers category, GM Pranav V continues to lead the standings despite being held to a draw in his last two matches. GM Abhimanyu Puranik returned to winning ways with a victory over GM R Vaishali, while GM Leon Mendonca notched a crucial win over GM Karthikeyan Murali.

As the tournament enters its crucial stages, all eyes will be on Aravindh Chithambaram as he looks to maintain his momentum and challenge for the title. With the competition heating up, fans can expect more thrilling battles and surprises in the days to come.