Global Chess League: Alpine SG Pipers looks to deliver a Checkmate

In the world of the Global Chess League, the Alpine SG Pipers are rapidly emerging as a force to be reckoned with.

With their ambitious sights set on conquering the championship and driven by a clear vision for the future of Chess, the Alpine SG Pipers are poised to make a significant impact both in India and on the global stage.

A formidable lineup ready to make their mark

The Alpine SG Pipers boast a truly formidable lineup for the upcoming season and are primed to leave an indelible mark on the global stage.

Leading the charge is none other than the world's number one player, Magnus Carlsen, whose presence alone adds immense value to the team.

Also, young Indian prodigy turned superstar, Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu, retained from the previous season, brings his remarkable talent and fearless play to the board for the Alpine SG Pipers.

And then there is Hou Yifan, the reigning women's world champion, who adds another layer of depth and experience to the team.

Rounding out the roster are seasoned players like Richard Rapport, who had climbed to the world rank 5th in May 2022.

Kateryna Lagno, a former women's world rapid champion and multiple-time world blitz champion will bring a wealth of experience to the team.

Finally, the skilled prodigy of the team Daniel Dardha, the youngest Belgian grandmaster will add a bit of surprise to the team.

With such a talented and balanced lineup, the Alpine SG Pipers will undoubtedly be one of the fan-favourites through the course of the tournament.

A vision for the future of chess

Mahesh Bhupati, who owns a part of the Alpine SG Pipers, explained the vision behind the backing of chess as a sport.

"We think chess is a real sport, and it's doing great in India and even around the world. We want to be a part of that story, especially since chess might be in the Olympics in the future" said Bhupati.

Bhupathi's idea shows that the Pipers want to win, but they also want to help chess grow and become a popular sport like others.

Eyes on the GCL Championship

Looking ahead to the upcoming season, the Pipers have their eyes firmly set on the ultimate prize.

"We have won many titles in other leagues that we participate in but considering how the last time we fell short in the GCL, this year we want to win," he said, attributing to the fourth-place finish by the Alpine SG Pipers in the first season of the GCL.

Bhupati and the franchise are now a resurgent outfit at the GCL this year.

"We want to definitely win the title," Bhupati asserted, while stating that this year, they have their eyes on the prize.

Nurturing the sport

Beyond their immediate goals, the Pipers are also invested in the long-term future of chess.

"Chess has always been a big sport in India and Vishy Anand has set a trend. We want to be a part of the journey and if we can influence that journey in any way we want to be able to do that and become an integral part of the ecosystem," Bhupathi emphasised.

This commitment to fostering the growth of chess in India aligns with the broader global trend of increasing interest and participation in the sport.

And with names such as Magnus, Praggnanandhaa, and Hou Yifan, the Alpine SG Pipers is set to draw the desired attention and bolster the popularity of the sport.