World Chess Olympiad | Indian men’s team lose to Armenia while Women draw against Italy

The fifth-seeded Indian men’s team suffered a shock defeat at the hands of Armenia in the ninth round of the World Chess Olympiad. India recorded three draws and one loss as they went down to a lower rated Armenia and in the process made the chances of making the medal list further bleak. 

Former World Champion - Viswanathan Anand split points with Armenian opponent Levon Aronian in 31 moves while playing on the top board. On the second board P. Harikrishna, who played with black pieces signed the peace treaty with Gabriel Sargissian in 25 moves. Similarly B. Adhiban drew against Hrant Melkumyan, but it was the fourth board where India faced defeat as K.Sasikiran lost to Haik M Martirosyan.

In the women’s section, the Indian team had to settle for a 2-2 draw against a strong Italian outfit at Georgia. India’s Koneru Humpy drew with Olga Zimina in 33 moves. On the second board Harika Dronavalli defeated Elena Sedina in 40 moves, while Tania Sachdev lost to Marina Brunello. The fourth board saw Padmini Rout also split points with Daniela Movileanu in 50 moves, which saw the game end at 2-2.