Global Chess League: Debutant American Gambits vow to make a mark in Season 2

The chess world is abuzz with anticipation as the second edition of the Global Chess League (GCL) is now less than a month away from the kick-off.

American Gambits, the new entrants, are ready to make a mark with a powerhouse team at their disposal.

Star-studded side

The American Gambits, co-owned by Prachura P, Venkat K Narayan and cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin have assembled one of the most impressive teams for the forthcoming GCL. The team will be led by talismanic grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura, for whom the Gambits went all out during the player draft. 

A player known for his aggressive and speedy game, the presence of Nakamura will add sheer excitement to the league.

He will be accompanied by a dynamic quartet of two male, and two female superstars, and an emerging prodigy.

Vladislav Artemiev is known for his tactical brilliance and is currently ranked 12th in rapid chess as of September 2024.

Jan Krzysztof Duda, the former winner of the Chess World Cup, is the highest-rated rapid player in the team with a rating of 2745.

Gambits have also secured the services of Kazakh player Bibisara Assaubayeva, a two-time world blitz champion. Meanwhile, Elisabeth Paehtz, the most experienced player in the lineup, brings a wealth of expertise and a renowned fighting spirit.

Young prodigy Jonas Bjerre, who stole the spotlight in the finals of the inaugural edition against Javokhir Sindarov, secured the championship for the Triveni Continental Kings and is a valuable player in the team.

Objectives and Aspirations

Prachura PP, co-owner and CEO of the American Gambits, has already said they would aim for the gong even though it is their debut season.

“Our one big objective is to win. We're hoping to win the league, like every other team. As the debutants of this season, it would be the perfect way to ensure that the chess world takes note of our team. And we would love to play our part to grow the game,” said Prachura.

Beyond their competitive goals, the Gambits are also committed to aligning with the GCL's brand and vision to promote the game of Chess globally.

“We aim to align with the brand that GCL is, and all that it stands for, throughout and beyond the tournament!” added Prachura.

The Future of Chess

Talking about the future of Chess, Prachura said, “The future of chess looks extremely promising. After the pandemic, a lot of non-chess players/followers have gotten into the game and we're seeing the game grow leaps and bounds in the last few years.”

As the stage is all set, the American Gambits, co-owned by famous Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, are set to make a thrilling entry into the Global Chess League.