London

Day two of the Global Chess League Season 2 was filled with excitement and fierce competition. The PBG Alaskan Knights took the lead by winning all three of their matches, earning a total of nine points. This puts them ahead of four teams, each with three points, while the Ganges Grandmasters sit at the bottom with no points.

The Alaskan Knights had a strong start, dominating the American Gambits 14-2 and narrowly defeating the Mumba Masters 8-5. They now lead the standings, followed by the Mumba Masters, Triveni Continental Kings, Alpine SG Pipers, and American Gambits, all tied with three points. Meanwhile, the Ganges Grandmasters, captained by former world champion Vishy Anand, have yet to win after two losses. The day had its surprises, including world number one Magnus Carlsen losing on time to Alireza Firouzja despite having a winning position. However, Indian talent Nihal Sarin stood out, delivering a key victory against the Mumba Masters that solidified the Knights’ lead.

In their final match of the day at Friends House, the Alaskan Knights faced the Mumba Masters. After quick draws on several boards, the decisive moment came when Sarin secured a crucial win against Raunak Sadhwani, leading to an 8-5 victory. The league continues Saturday with four matches starting at 1 PM BST in London.