Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi Leads Co-Leaders at World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship

Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi shines at World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship

Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi has emerged as one of the four co-leaders at the ongoing World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship, showcasing his impressive skills on the board. Erigaisi, along with Russians Volodar Murzin and Alexander Grischuk, as well as Poland’s Jan-Krzysztof Duda, share the lead with seven points each after the second day and Round 9 of the championship.

In the women’s section, India’s Koneru Humpy has also shown her prowess, overcoming an initial setback to lead the pack with 6.5 points. She is joined by compatriot D Harika and China’s Wenjun Ju at the top of the standings.

Erigaisi had a stellar day, defeating opponents Robson Ray and Shant Sargsyan, while also securing draws against Murzin and Duda. His performance has positioned him well for the remaining rounds of the championship.

However, the day was marred by the disqualification of five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen for violating the tournament’s dress code by wearing jeans. Carlsen’s refusal to comply with the regulations led to his disqualification and a $200 fine. With Carlsen out of the competition, Erigaisi’s chances of clinching the title have significantly improved.

In the upcoming 10th round, Erigaisi will face off against Grischuk, setting the stage for an exciting battle on the chessboard. The standings in both the men’s and women’s sections remain tight, promising fierce competition in the remaining rounds of the championship.