This August, the chess world turns its attention to Chennai for one of the most anticipated classical tournaments of the year - the Quantbox Chennai Grandmasters 2025! Hosted at the Hyatt Regency, this elite 10 player round-robin brings together a dynamic mix of top Indian and international talent, promising nine days of high level, hard-fought classical chess.
Get ready - the stage is set, and the action is about to begin! This event brings world-class chess to one of the game’s most passionate hubs, where every round is expected to deliver depth, drama, and decisive battles! ⚔️
The tournament was originally scheduled to start on August 6, but a minor electrical fire at the venue led to a precautionary one-day delay. Fortunately, no injuries were reported and the issue was quickly resolved. As a result, the scheduled rest day on August 11 has been removed - setting up nine consecutive days of play, from August 7 to 15.
With a thrilling blend of experience, ambition, and diverse playing styles, the Quantbox Chennai Grandmasters 2025 promises a memorable week of classical chess. Fans around the globe can look forward to daily games, expert commentary, and a healthy dose of international rivalry - all from the vibrant heart of Chennai!
Arjun kicks off the game with the ever-classical Italian Game - a strategic and elegant choice that signals a battle rich in nuance.
Liang springs into action with a sharp knight move, immediately targeting Arjun’s pawn and introducing early tension into the position.
Arjun repositions his rook once more, this time stepping in to defend a vulnerable pawn.
With both players castling on the kingside, the kings are now safely sheltered. The opening phase draws to a close, and the stage is set for a strategic middle game.
Arjun advances his central pawn, staking claim to the heart of the board.
Arjun is playing at blitz speed, a clear sign of deep preparation and confidence. He’s just thrown down a positional sacrifice, aiming for active play and long-term pressure. Will Liang accept the pawn or steer clear?
Liang responds with precision, putting the brakes on Arjun’s advancing flank pawn. A subtle but important move to slow down White’s momentum on the wing.
Arjun gives up a pawn, not for tactics, but for long-term positional pressure. Though he's down material, he holds compensation, the bishop pair, active pieces, and targets emerging in Black’s weak pawn structure. The game is entering a fascinating phase!
Liang advances his central pawn, aiming to initiate exchanges and relieve himself of the burden of an isolated pawn.
Arjun repositions his knight with purpose, scanning the board for key outposts.
Liang goes for a material sacrifice, but the evaluation is unclear. It looks more hopeful than calculated - a bold decision that may not hold up under precise play.
Arjun calmly parries the check and signals he's ready to simplify by trading queens - confident in his position and looking to convert his advantage in a cleaner endgame.
A misstep by Liang allows Arjun to successfully defend his central pawn. It’s a small but significant moment, helping Arjun maintain control in a critical position.
Seizing the moment, Arjun plays accurately to maintain his material advantage. He’s not letting the opportunity slip, tightening his grip on the position with steady play.
Arjun is playing with confidence, maintaining his edge both positionally and on the clock. He's dictating the pace and keeping the pressure on in all aspects of the game!
The position is turning against Liang, he’s running out of both time and good options.
Arjun Erigaisi kicked off his campaign at the Quantbox Chennai Grandmasters 2025 with a strong win over American GM Awonder Liang in 49 moves, showcasing both creativity and control in an Italian Game.
Arjun played with confidence from the start, uncorking an interesting positional pawn sacrifice to seize the initiative early. The Indian star kept pressing with active piece play, forcing Liang onto the back foot.
Though Liang managed to stabilize the position for a while, he later opted for a risky piece sacrifice that didn’t hold up under scrutiny. Arjun calmly navigated the complications, consolidated his material advantage, and converted with precision to secure the full point.