B. Adhiban Reflects on Global Chess League Success and Future of Indian Stars

B. Adhiban, the Indian grandmaster affectionately known as 'The Beast', recently enjoyed a successful transition into coaching, guiding the Ganges Grandmasters to a maiden title at the Tech Mahindra Global Chess League in Bengaluru. The veteran player, who previously secured bronze medals with the Indian team at the 2014 and 2022 Chess Olympiads, took on the role at short notice following an invitation from the team's ownership. Adhiban credited the team's success to a collective effort, highlighting the contributions of Levon Aronian, whom he described as an excellent team player capable of lifting the squad during difficult moments.

The campaign was bolstered significantly by the performances of Polina Shuvalova and Stavroula Tsolakidou. Adhiban noted that Shuvalova provided a consistent and fearless start for the team throughout the tournament. Meanwhile, Tsolakidou, who earned the Player-of-the-Tournament award, worked closely with Adhiban on opening preparations. The coach emphasized that their daily training sessions, which focused on improvising and implementing new strategies, proved decisive in key matches, including victories against the Alpine Pipers.

Adhiban also weighed in on the prospects of D. Gukesh, backing the young talent to overcome his recent form struggles. Reflecting on Gukesh’s career trajectory, Adhiban highlighted the youngster's consistent ability to defy expectations and silence critics who doubted his rapid or blitz capabilities. Despite the strong form of Javokhir Sindarov, Adhiban maintained that Gukesh possesses the higher peak potential. He suggested that Gukesh’s path forward lies in rediscovering himself rather than attempting to replicate his past performances, asserting that the player has a proven track record of clearing every hurdle placed in front of him.