R Vaishali Soars to Joint Lead in Women's Candidates Tournament with Bold Rook Sacrifice
Candidates 2026: How a rook sacrifice powered R Vaishali to joint lead
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
R Vaishali's remarkable performance in the Women's Candidates tournament in Cyprus has propelled her to joint leader alongside China's Zhu Jiner, both scoring 5.5 points. After a shaky start, Vaishali's strategic rook sacrifices against compatriot Divya Deshmukh secured her victory, showcasing her tactical prowess.
- 01R Vaishali is now joint leader with 5.5 points in the Women's Candidates tournament.
- 02She achieved victory over Divya Deshmukh with two strategic rook sacrifices.
- 03Vaishali's comeback comes after a challenging start with four draws and a loss.
- 04Divya Deshmukh is currently joint fourth, trailing Vaishali by one point.
- 05R Praggnanandhaa, competing in the men's Candidates, is struggling with only one win.
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R Vaishali's journey in the Women's Candidates tournament in Cyprus has been nothing short of remarkable. After starting with four consecutive draws and a defeat, she has surged to joint leader alongside China's Zhu Jiner, both holding 5.5 points with just five rounds remaining. Vaishali's recent victory over compatriot Divya Deshmukh was marked by her bold strategy of sacrificing two rooks, a move that showcased her tactical brilliance. Despite holding a significant time advantage, the game concluded in 31 moves. Divya, now joint fourth, is one point behind Vaishali, who is competing in her second Candidates tournament. Meanwhile, R Praggnanandhaa, the only Indian in the men's Candidates, has faced challenges, managing only one win and several draws, leaving him three points behind the leader, Javokhir Sindarov. As the tournament progresses, Vaishali's strong performance highlights her potential for a shot at the Women's World Championship.
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