India’s grandmasters made a strong start in Round 3 of the 2025 FIDE World Cup on Friday (November 7). While Arjun Erigaisi and P. Harikrishna scored decisive wins, Gukesh D, R. Praggnanandhaa, and Vidit Gujrathi held firm draws with black pieces, maintaining India’s powerful presence in the tournament.
Arjun Erigaisi’s Dominant Victory
India’s top-rated player, Arjun Erigaisi, displayed his trademark precision to defeat Uzbekistan’s GM Shamsiddin Vokhidov in just 30 moves. Playing with white pieces, Arjun showed complete control from the opening and converted his advantage confidently.
The win continues Arjun’s perfect form in the event. After receiving a first-round bye, he dominated his second-round opponent and has now extended his winning streak to three straight games. His calm demeanour and efficient play underline why he’s among the top contenders for the Viswanathan Anand Cup.
Harikrishna Outplays Dardha in Just 25 Moves
Veteran grandmaster P. Harikrishna also impressed with an attacking display against Belgium’s GM Daniel Dardha. Using a well-prepared line in the Sicilian Classical, Harikrishna forced an early resignation in only 25 moves.
He revealed after the game:
“I had prepared something new for this game. Though I had some assistance in my preparation, I couldn’t recall every detail. But there were some key tactical moments that my opponent missed. He didn’t realize the danger he was in.”
Harikrishna’s quick win puts him in a strong position to qualify for Round 4, continuing his steady performance in elite events this year.
Indian Stars Hold Ground With Black Pieces
Elsewhere, World Champion Gukesh D, R. Praggnanandhaa, and Vidit Gujrathi played solid games to earn draws. Playing black, they neutralized their opponents’ preparation and maintained balance on the board — a good result in the first game of a two-game match format.
Round 3 Game 1 Results (India):
- GM Frederik Svane (GER) drew with GM Gukesh D 0.5–0.5
- GM Arjun Erigaisi beat GM Shamsiddin Vokhidov (UZB) 1–0
- GM Robert Hovhannisyan (ARM) drew with GM R Praggnanandhaa 0.5–0.5
- GM Sam Shankland (USA) drew with GM Vidit Gujrathi 0.5–0.5
- GM P. Harikrishna beat GM Daniel Dardha (BEL) 1–0
India’s Strong Presence at the World Cup
A total of ten Indian players entered Round 3, among 206 participants from 82 nations, reflecting India’s deep chess talent pool. Arjun and Harikrishna’s wins highlight the growing dominance of Indian players at the world level — a continuation of the country’s remarkable momentum after Gukesh’s World Championship victory earlier this year.
India’s Chess Golden Generation Rises Again
The ongoing FIDE World Cup marks another chapter in India’s chess revolution. Arjun’s consistency, Harikrishna’s experience, and the youthful resilience of Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa together show how India now fields multiple world-class contenders simultaneously.
This generational blend — combining experience and fresh energy — signals that India is not just participating but shaping the global chess narrative.
