The second season of the Global Chess League is set to take place in London from October 3-12, 2024. The highlight of the recent player draft was the selection of two rising Indian chess stars, Vaishali Rameshbabu and Nihal Sarin, who are poised to make their mark in this prestigious tournament.
Vaishali Rameshbabu joins Ganges Grandmasters
Vaishali Rameshbabu, a prominent Indian Grandmaster, was selected by the Ganges Grandmasters in the Superstar Women 1 division during the draft held in New Delhi. Vaishali will be joining forces with the legendary Viswanathan Anand, bringing a mix of youthful energy and seasoned expertise to the team.
Her selection underscores her growing reputation in the chess world, and her participation is eagerly anticipated by fans and experts alike.
Nihal Sarin to compete for Alaskan Knights
Twenty-year-old Nihal Sarin, another rising star in Indian chess, was chosen by the Alaskan Knights in the Prodigy division. Sarin will be competing alongside top players like Nodirbek Abdusattorov and Shakhriyar Mamedyarov, making the Alaskan Knights a formidable team in this season’s league.
Expressing his excitement, Sarin said, “For someone my age, coming up the ranks in this sport, I am super thrilled to be part of the Global Chess League Season 2. I am looking forward to learning from the stalwarts playing in this season, and I am happy to be part of Alaskan Knights this season.”
Mumba Masters retain Humpy and Harika
In a strategic move, Mumba Masters managed to retain two of India’s top female Grandmasters, Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli, ensuring a strong lineup for the upcoming season. Their experience and skill will be crucial as the team competes against the best in the world.
Icon Players announced for Global Chess League
The teams have already named their icon players, adding further excitement to the league. The roster includes some of the biggest names in chess: Magnus Carlsen (Alpine SG Pipers), Viswanathan Anand (Ganges Grandmasters), Maxime Vachier-Lagrave (Mumba Masters), Ian Nepomniachtchi (Triveni Continental Kings), and debutants Hikaru Nakamura (American Gambits) and Anish Giri (Alaskan Knights).
As the Global Chess League gears up for its second season, the stage is set for intense competition and remarkable performances. Fans worldwide will be watching closely as these grandmasters, both seasoned and emerging, battle it out on the global stage.