How Arjun overcame the disappointment of the World Cup

IN the unforgiving world of elite chess, every tournament is a lead-up to something.

- SWAROOP SWAMINATHAN @Mumbai

To outsiders, the Global Chess League (GCL), the fast-paced Rapid format now in its third edition, may seem like an ideal pitstop for players to have some fun and experience the joy of featuring in a team sport, something that’s still very novel in the board game.But most of the players are treating the GCL as a sort of training ground for World Rapid and Blitz, scheduled to be held in Doha later this month. “GCL is happening at a great time just before the World Rapid and Blitz,” Arjun Erigaisi said during the pre-tournament function on Saturday. “I’m checking my openings.

Erigaisi, part of PBG Alaskan Knights, will be one of the players tasked with stopping Triveni Continental Kings, the two-time defending champions. “GCL has always been great,” the 22-year-old said. “Indian chess players look at it as the IPL of chess.”