The last round of the Quantbox Chennai Grandmasters 2025 features an all-Indian encounter as Nihal Sarin meets Pranav.
Nihal, fresh from an exciting draw against Karthikeyan Murali in Round 8, has been mixing creativity with deep preparation throughout the event. Pranav, on the other hand, produced a steady Najdorf draw against Ray Robson, keeping his tournament solid but still searching for that elusive win.
With nothing to lose, both players could throw caution to the wind in this final showdown. Will it be Nihal’s sharp play or Pranav’s composure that has the last word?
Pranav selects the Nimzo-Indian Defense, aiming for a solid yet dynamic setup.
Both sides tuck their kings safely on the kingside.
Pranav shifts his queen, aiming to control the long diagonal and increase pressure across the board.
Nihal maneuvers his knights, seeking optimal squares to increase their activity and influence over the board.
In an attempt to control an outpost, the bishop instead relinquishes another one, allowing Nihal’s knight to claim a powerful square along the c-file.
Nihal executes a strong move that opens the position, increasing activity and creating fresh tactical opportunities!
As the position opens, Pranav feels the heat. Nihal’s pieces, especially his commanding bishop pair, are all aimed at the king.
Nihal unleashes a precise and brilliant sacrifice, seizing the initiative and putting his opponent under immediate pressure!
Nihal spots a neat tactical shot, wrapping up the game in elegant fashion.
In the final round, Nihal Sarin delivered an impressive win over Pranav. The opening saw a Nimzo-Indian Defense, and Nihal gradually steered the game into sharp, attacking waters.
With precise calculation and bold sacrifices, Nihal created multiple threats, keeping Pranav on the defensive throughout. Pranav tried to hold, but Nihal’s initiative proved too strong, and he converted his advantage into a full point!