The Hindu : Sport / Chess : Anand to skip Asian Games

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Wednesday, Sep 20, 2006
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Anand to skip Asian Games

New Delhi: World No.2 Viswanathan Anand will not take part in the Doha Asian Games where chess will figure as a medal sport for the first time in the event's history, the All India Chess Federation (AICF) Secretary, D.V. Sundar, said.

It is speculated that Anand is apprehensive about taking part in the team championship after he lost around 20 ELO points in the Chess Olympiad despite being a part of the second-seeded Indian team early this year.

It is believed that Anand had no problems taking part in the individual competition, as it would be played in his favourite rapid format. But according to the rules of the Asian Games, one has to take part in both categories. The team championship would be played in the classical format.

Anand's absence notwithstanding, India would still be among the favourites to clinch the three gold medals at stake.

``I am sure we will win four medals, one in the team, and three for individual performances. Three out of these four medals could possibly be gold. We will be among the top teams and surely our players will deliver,'' Sundar told PTI.

The Indian camp is upbeat and is planning well for the event, he added. ``We will have a camp for the players and make sure that they are able to deliver their best for the country.'' — PTI

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