In the ongoing Women's Candidates tournament in Bengaluru, R Vaishali, aged 24, lost her sole lead after a defeat to Zhu Jiner, the world No.2 chess player. Vaishali needed at least a draw in Round 12 to maintain her position but faltered against Zhu's strategic play. Zhu effectively navigated Vaishali's unusual opening in the Caro-Kann, leading to critical errors from Vaishali, particularly after her 36.Nc1 move. With this victory, Zhu caught up with Vaishali for a shared lead in the tournament. Vaishali will face Tan Zhongyi and Kateryna Lagno in the final two rounds, both of whom she has previously defeated. Meanwhile, the tournament has seen inconsistent performances, with 2024 Women’s Candidates winner Tan having a particularly challenging event. In the Open section, Javokhir Sindarov remains in clear lead, having opted for a draw against Hikaru Nakamura, demonstrating a strategic approach as he aims for victory in the final rounds.