Mumba Masters Stun Leaders, Jockey for Finals in Tech Mahindra Chess League

In a dramatic upset, Mumba Masters defeated PBG Alaskan Knights in the Tech Mahindra Global Chess League, altering the finals qualification scenario. Key victories by Triveni Continental Kings and Alpine Sg Pipers also reshaped the leaderboard, while Ganges Grandmasters and American Gambits struggled to clinch their spots.

In a surprising upset, the Mumba Masters knocked down the tournament leaders, PBG Alaskan Knights, preventing their direct entry into the Tech Mahindra Global Chess League finals on Wednesday. Triveni Continental Kings and Alpine Sg Pipers also made significant strides toward top positions with their own victories over the Ganges Grandmasters and American Gambits.

Mumba started strong, despite an early lead taken by the Alaskan Knights. After draws and losses by Vidit Gujrathi and Peter Svidler, Maxime Vachier-Lagrave's decisive win over Anish Giri kept Mumba in contention. The climactic finale saw Mumba's Koneru Humpy and Raunak Sadhwani secure their win under pressure. While the PBG Alaskan Knights await another opportunity, Mumba remains hopeful of reaching the finals.

Meanwhile, Triveni Continental Kings triumphed over the Ganges Grandmasters, driven by strategic plays despite early game advantages for Ganges. The defeat pushes Ganges out of finals contention, with the Kings tightening their grip on a finals spot. Alpine Sg Pipers also celebrated a win, led by Praggnanandhaa, against a struggling American Gambits team.

(With inputs from agencies.)