Chess | Will World No. 2 Hikaru Nakamura come to India for GCL season 3? Team shares update

The Global Chess League's third season is set to begin at Mumbai's Royal Opera House, with American Gambits making their second tournament appearance.

The team has announced World No. 2 Hikaru Nakamura's participation as their Icon player, arriving Sunday morning. The squad includes Bibisara Assaubayeva, Richard Rapport, Vladislav Artemiev, Teodora Injac, and World Rapid Champion Volodar Murzin.



The American Gambits will face PBG Alaskan Knights in their opening match, featuring a clash between Nakamura and World Champion Gukesh D.

"We can confirm Hikaru is coming, and the matchup between him and Gukesh is one everyone will be watching closely. They've had several exciting battles this year, usually very evenly fought. It will be one of the most anticipated duels of the season. I do feel we have a slight edge because Hikaru is more experienced in shorter time formats, but anything can happen on the day," Head Coach GM Srinath Narayanan stated.

"We are delighted to confirm Hikaru's participation. He will be donning the American Gambits shirt and leading an incredibly exciting team. Our first match is against Gukesh's team, and it is going to be a thrilling contest that sets the momentum for us. We're looking forward to the season," said Co-owner Prachura PP.

The team's schedule includes matches against Mumbai Masters, Continental Kings, SG Pipers, and Ganges Grandmasters in the opening round.

"With the new season being hosted in India, we're very excited. On paper, we are one of the strongest teams, with one of the highest average ratings. We have champions across the board, including the current World Rapid Champion Murzin. The squad looks solid and promising," Srinath commented.

"Our primary aim is to win the trophy. We have champion players across categories, one of the highest total ratings in the league, and we want everyone performing at their full potential. The mix of experience and young firepower gives us the balance needed to compete deep into the season. The team environment is strong, the preparation has been meticulous, and we believe this is the year we can make a real statement," Prachura added.

The American Gambits team consists of Hikaru Nakamura, Richard Rapport, Vladislav Artemiev, Bibisara Assaubayeva, Teodora Injac, and Volodar Murzin.

ALSO READ: The rise of ‘Queen’: From ages 8 to 18, how an all-girl team is bringing free chess to rural India


Get an chance to win ₹5000 Amazon Voucher by taking part in India's Biggest Habit Index! Take the survey here