My goal is to win the cup for my team: Nihal Sarin

What do chess players do when not solving puzzles or planning their moves for an upcoming tournament?

“Tennis,” says the young Nihal Sarin, while calling out Novak Djokovic as one of his favorites.

“My forehand play is a bit like Daniil Medvedev rather than Djokovic as it is a bit unorthodox,” he says, drawing parallels with his own unconventional approach to chess.

“I like to play a little out of ordinary on the board,” is how he best describes his approach, one that will be in full view in the upcoming season of the Global Chess League, where the young chess prodigy will turn out for the PBG Alaskan Knights.

A Vishy-inspired generation

Speaking to The Bridge, Sarin compared the league to franchise-cricket, calling it the ‘IPL of Chess,’ replete with dramatic twists that led to a thrilling finish at the inaugural edition at Dubai.

Now though, Sarin’s priority is to enjoy every game and play his best chess.

“My goal is to win the cup for my team. I’m sure we are capable,” he stated, adding that the entire team would need to step up and perform to achieve the feat.

While every player has a unique approach and might often involve the use of technology, Sarin’s methodology is devoid of it.

“I would like to play the games out by myself,” he reflected, highlighting his approach of analyzing a position instead without the guidance of an engine.

That said, Sarin does recognize that engines and online platforms have boosted the popularity of the game, especially during the pandemic.

“Streamers like Samay Raina played a pivotal role in popularizing the game by streaming chess to a broader audience. This, combined with the rise of online platforms offering chess simulations, has made chess more accessible than ever before.”

Add to this the influence of Vishwanathan Anand and what we have now, according to Sarin, is a generation that is truly inspired.

“Vishy sir has inspired so many kids to take up chess as a career showing that it can be played professionally, not just as a hobby.”

While inspiration does get a player going, preparation is vital. But Sarin is truly unorthodox in his approach.

Physical and mental readiness

In the competitive world of chess, most players have well-defined routines before entering a tournament. However, Nihal Sarin admits that he doesn’t have a strict regimen, focusing instead on enjoying the game and giving his best effort.

“I don't have anything special to be honest,” Sarin says while indicating that he does study historical games and solves puzzles to prepare.

According to the 20-year old, staying well prepared is vital owing to the elevated levels of competitions at the moment.

“On any given day, it is difficult to predict your opponent’s strategy because the level of knowledge in chess has risen so much. That is why physical and mental preparation is necessary.”

An obvious question at this juncture is the role of physical preparation, given that the game is such that the mind prevails over matter.

Sarin, however, feels otherwise.

“I believe it is important”, he acknowledges, noting that while stating chess is not a physical sport, it demands significant energy owing to the extend hours of play that require players to maintain focus.

“I do indulge in physical activities by doing regular exercises at the gym,” Sarin remarks, in what could be an unusual concept for chess players.

And that’s where his newfound love for tennis and Novak Djokovic comes in.

“Despite not being in his peak right now, he (Novak) is still amazing to watch,” he says.

But who does he admire in the world of chess?

Inspired by the best

“Magnus is my favorite. His ability to convert the slightest advantage into a win is remarkable,” he says.

“I've played against him a few times and gained invaluable insight. While I would have loved to face legends like Gary Kasparov and Bobby Fischer, my encounters with Magnus have given me valuable insight.”

Sarin also holds high regard for Vishwanathan Anand's speed and sharpness.

“He was called the ‘Lightning Kid’ for a reason. Watching him come up with great moves so quickly is amazing.”

In the modern chess landscape, Sarin finds Arjun Erigaisi’s dynamic play impressive.

As Sarin continues his journey in the chess world, he remains focused on his passion for the game.

He believes that enjoyment and hard work are the keys to success.

“The most important thing is to pursue chess only if you enjoy it,” he reflects, suggesting that passion is key to success in both chess and life.

He advises aspiring youngsters to be prepared for the challenges ahead, crediting mental toughness as a crucial factor for success in the sport.

"If you keep working hard, stay mentally strong, and never give up, success will eventually come," Sarin concluded.