Chess, a game of strategy and intellect, has seen a remarkable surge in popularity globally, and India stands at the forefront of this revolution.
upGrad Mumba Masters, a prominent name in the Indian sports landscape, made a significant entry into the Global Chess League (GCL) in its inaugural season.
As Season 2 approaches, upGrad Mumba Masters is poised to build on its success, showcasing a formidable lineup of players and a commitment to fostering a strong team culture in this traditionally individual sport.
An Indian core with solid veterans
upGrad Mumba Masters boasts a roster of exceptional chess players, combining the experience of seasoned veterans with the dynamism of emerging stars.
The team’s lineup features icon Maxime Vachier Lagrave, who’s a world blitz title holder with a rating of 2776, the seventh-highest rating ever for a player.
Vidit Gujarathi, the Indian fan favorite, who’s known for his accuracy will play in the male superstar category.
While Koneru Humpy, a former world rapid champion along with Harika Dronavalli who’s a three-time bronze medalist in the women’s world chess championship, will hold the women superstars board.
Moreover, both Koneru and Harika have been the flag bearers of women’s chess in India for the longest of times.
Raunak Sadhwani who was a bronze medalist from the 2022 Chennai Olympiad, is currently at the peak of his ratings and will add stability to the junior board.
Alignment with GCL’s Vision
Suhail Chandhok, CEO of upGrad Mumba Masters, eloquently articulates the synergy between UMumba’s vision and the GCL’s objectives.
“Chess in India goes hand in hand, and in many ways, India is seen as the next powerhouse in the world of chess,” he states.
upGrad Mumba Masters’ foray into chess aligns seamlessly with its broader mission to promote sports beyond cricket and contribute to India’s emergence as a sporting nation.
From kabaddi to table tennis, and now chess, U Mumba has consistently championed diverse sporting disciplines.
The GCL provides a platform for the squad to nurture both the physical and mental aspects of sports, further solidifying its commitment to the holistic development of the sport.
Building on a Strong Foundation
upGrad Mumba Masters’ approach to Season 2 is rooted in continuity and consolidation.
The team aims to replicate the success of its inaugural season, where it fostered a remarkable team spirit within an individual sport. “We tried to build a very strong team culture and we would like to believe that we succeeded,” Chandhok reflects.
The camaraderie and mutual support among the players were evident, contributing significantly to their performance.
In the upcoming season, they intend to maintain a similar squad, capitalizing on the existing synergy and chemistry.
The focus will be on enhancing individual skills while nurturing the collective spirit that sets the team apart. With a strong foundation in place, upGrad Mumba Masters is confident in its ability to deliver a captivating performance and achieve remarkable results in Season 2.
Chess in India and Globally: A Bright Future
The future of chess, both in India and globally, appears exceptionally promising.
The recent achievements of Indian chess players, including those on upGrad Mumba Masters’ roster, have solidified India’s position on the global chess map.
Their victories have instilled a sense of awe and respect among international players, transforming the perception of Indian chess from underdog to formidable contender.
The GCL plays a pivotal role in amplifying the global reach of chess. By bringing together top players from around the world, the league showcases the sport’s universal appeal and fosters cross-cultural exchange.
upGrad Mumba Masters’ participation in the GCL further contributes to the globalization of chess, showcasing India’s prowess and inspiring a new generation of chess enthusiasts.