International Master Tania Sachdev led the charge as the Indian women’s team crashed through the defences of Israel and romped to a huge 3.5—0.5 victory in the 10th and penultimate round of the Chess Olympiad here.
Having lost to Russia in the previous round, this was a much needed victory for the Indians and it elevated them to the joint fourth spot with just one round to go in the biggest chess spectacle.
This is the first time that the Indian eves have come so close to attaining a medal.
At the top of the table, China was held to a 2—2 draw by Kazakhstan with both teams exchanging one victory besides two draws.
The Russian eves caught up with China in the lead on 17 points after drubbing Armenia 3.5—0.5. In third spot is Ukraine on 16 points and Indian girls stand joint fourth on 15 points along with Germany, France and Kazakhstan.
The Indian girls are now in an enviable position and what remains to be seen is who they play in the next round. The likely opponent is Ukraine and if that happens a victory gives them every chance of a podium finish.
The results of the Indian women’s team have depended on the success of Tania and the Delhi-based player has not disappointed. She scored a convincing victory at the expense of Marsel Efroimski of Israel on the second board.
The Indian think tank decided to rest Eesha Karavade in this round and the strategy came good as reserved player Soumya Swaminathan came up with an impressive victory on board four against Yuliya Shvayger.