Indian Chess Wrap, May 9: Praggnanandhaa moves to top place at Superbet Classic; Vaishali slips to second in Women’s Grand Prix in Austria

FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2024–2025

R. Vaishali slipped to second place after a draw against the experienced Mariya Muzychuk. Playing with white pieces, she began confidently, developing actively and expanding on the queenside. In the middlegame, she tried to test Muzychuk’s defences, but the Ukrainian responded steadily, defusing any potential threats. As time pressure mounted, Vaishali found no clear path forward and wisely opted for repetition rather than taking risks. Though the game ended in a stalemate, it reflected Vaishali’s ability to remain level-headed against a seasoned player like Muzychuk. With this draw, she keeps her momentum, half a point behind leader Anna Muzychuk.

Grand Chess Tour: Superbet Chess Classic Romania 2025

In round three, R. Praggnanandhaa defeated Nodirbek Abdusattorov, his first in three rounds, and moved to the top of the standings. Playing with white pieces, Praggnanandhaa won in 61 moves, gradually increasing his advantage. His solid endgame, particularly with rooks and pawns, allowed him to outmanoeuvre Abdusattorov for the full point. In another match, D. Gukesh fought against Bogdan-Daniel Deac and secured a draw.

Asian Individual Chess Championships 2025

Seshadri Srija soared to her third consecutive victory, dispatching compatriot Rakshitta Ravi in just 39 moves to seize the sole lead in the women’s section. Vantika Agarwal was the only other Indian in the top 10, close behind with 2.5 points on 10th. In the open section, Indian presence was strong and steady, with four players — A.R. Ilamparthi, L.R. Srihari, P. Aniyan, and Karthikeyan Murali — holding 2.5 points apiece. The pack was led by Iranian Bardiya Daneshvar.