New Delhi, Sept 19: World number two Vishwanathan
Anand will not take part in the Doha Asian Games where chess
will figure as a medal sport for the first time in the event's
history.
This was revealed by All India Chess Federation secretary
D V Sundar who, however, did not divulge the reason for
Anand's unavailability.
But it is speculated that Anand is apprehensive about
taking part in team championship after he lost around 20 elo
points in the Chess Olympiad despite being a part of the
second-seeded Indian team early this year.
It is believed that Anand had no problems taking part in
the individual competition as it would be played in his
favourite rapid format. But according to the rules of the
games, one has to take part in both categories. The team
championship would be played in the classical format.
Anand's absence notwithstanding, the Indians would still
be among the top favourites to clinch the three gold medals at
stake for the first time for Asian chess players.
Sundar was confident about Indians picking four medals
with top grandmasters Krishnan Sasikiran, P Harikrishna and
Koneru Humpy comprising the Indian team.
"I am sure we will win four medals, one in the team, and
three for individual performances. Three out of these four
medals could possibly be gold. We will be among the top teams
and surely our players will deliver," Sundar said.
The Indian camp is upbeat and is planning well for the
event to be held in December, he added. "We will have a camp
for the players and make sure that they are able to deliver
their best for the country."
Bureau Report