India ‘A’ shocked the leader and third seed Spain 2.5-1.5 in a dramatic six round encounter of the Tata-sponsored 14th IBCA chess Olympiad at Le Meridien here on Thursday. This was Spain’s first defeat in the Olympiad.
India jumped to nine points with four wins, a defeat and draw to share the third spot with Ukraine. Russia crushed Germany 3-1 to join Spain at the top with 10 points. The host is riding on Kishan Gangolli. After only 19 moves into his game against Manuel Palacios, the latter lost when his mobile phone rang. It is mandatory for all players to switch off their mobiles. The early lead was neutralised after Udupa was outplayed on the top board. Darpan Inani then drew on the third board to level scores. Ashvin Makwana won a pawn ending using his extra pawn as India completed its biggest upset of the tournament.
India ‘B’ also won, the 3-1 verdict against France taking it to five points.
