Indian Chess Power: Divya Deshmukh & Koneru Humpy Secure Draws in Women's World Cup Semifinal Game 1
In the FIDE Women's World Cup semifinals in Batumi, India’s Divya Deshmukh and Koneru Humpy each held strong defensive draws against higher-ranked Chinese GMs in Game 1, keeping India’s hopes alive for a Candidates Tournament berth
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In Round 1 of the FIDE Women's World Cup semifinals in Batumi, Georgia, both Indian contenders — IM Divya Deshmukh and GM Koneru Humpy — held resolute draws with the black pieces against higher-rated Chinese opponents.
Divya Deshmukh faced GM Tan Zhongyi and achieved a solid, quick draw, effectively neutralizing any threats in the Queen’s Gambit Declined setup.
Koneru Humpy, India’s top female player, defended a sharp Mortimer Variation of the Berlin Defense against GM Lei Tingjie, trading material and managing her time well to maintain equality.
Holding with the black pieces in semifinal Game 1 gives India the tactical edge. With two games remaining—and tie-breaks ready if needed—both players have kept India’s bid for two or more candidates spots firmly in play.
- Both Indian players held with black, effectively neutralizing Chinese aggression.
- A solid start gives India leverage heading into Game 2 and possible tie-breaks.
- With three spots at stake for next year’s Women's Candidates Tournament, India remains strongly positioned.
