‘Sindarov’s chance to shock Carlsen’: Experts feel Uzbek GM will have to seize his moments

BENGALURU: The wait for the big match between Magnus Carlsen and Javokhir Sindarov in the Global Chess League (GCL) will end on Monday, when the two giants clash on the icon board.The much-awaited clash occurs in the GCL version of rapid chess, which has no increments for the first 40 moves, and is more likely to produce a winner. The chess world is eagerly awaiting the clash between them — there will be at least two in this edition — and top players consider Carlsen as the overwhelming favourite. The two will clash when APL Pipers take on American Gambits in the third match of the day.“For Sindarov, this match is to prove that he is up there and ready to take on Magnus. Whereas, Magnus looked chilled out and I don’t think he is thinking too much about this particular game. He just wants to play good chess and show that he is still the No. 1 and the best ever,” Bengaluru GM Pranav Anand told TOI.“I was following Magnus’ match against Maxime,” the 19-year-old said. “I think Magnus starts as the overwhelming favourite. Sindarov has good chances but I don’t see him beating Magnus. Most likely, it’s going to end in a draw.” Pranav also felt Monday’s match would be Sindarov's best chance.“Magnus starts playing his best chess in the second half of the tournament. He will just start winning continuously in that phase. He is a bit sloppy in the first few rounds, so Monday’s match is Sindarov’s best chance.”Results: Alpine APL Pipers bt Ganges Grandmasters 11-6, Mumba Masters lost to Alaskan Knights 6-11, Ganges bt American Gambits 9-7; Continental Kings lost to Mumba Masters 9-10.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.