The world of chess is experiencing a renaissance. With a projected market growth of USD 2.19 billion this year and further expansion on the horizon, the sport’s appeal is undeniable.
In India, the Punit Balan Group (PBG) is at the forefront of this movement, and their Global Chess League (GCL) team, the PBG Alaskan Knights, is ready to take on the other franchisees in the GCL Season 2.
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The Team: A Powerhouse Lineup
For the upcoming season, the PBG Alaskan Knights are set with an elite lineup featuring Anish Giri, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Shakhriyar Mamedyarov, Tan Zhongyi, Alina Kashlinskaya, and Nihal Sarin, the team combines experience and youthful energy.
The Knights will be led by the polyglot Anish Giri, Anish who has his roots in Nepal and boasts the satisfaction of having defeated Magnus Carlsen multiple times on the board.
Moreover, Rising star Nodirbek Abdusattarav, who holds the record for the youngest ever to win the World Rapid Chess championships, will hold the male superstar board along with Shakhriyar Mamedyarov of Azerbaijan who’s the most experienced grandmaster in the team and also a former winner of the world rapid chess championships way back in 2013.
In the women’s boards, the Knights will have the 2025 Women World Championship Challenger Tan Zhongyi, Tan qualified for the spot of challenging Ju Wenjun by clinching the women’s candidates title in 2024.
Alina Kashlinskaya, who recently won the Tbilisi FIDE Women’s Grand Prix in August 2024, is just one norm away from getting the grandmaster prefix before her name.
Finally, the Alaskan Knights have roped in Indian prodigy and a beast in speed chess, Nihal Sarin, he possesses great intuitive speed and will be one of the strongest in the junior board during the tournament.
Objectives and Alignment with GCL
Punit Balan, the visionary owner of PBG Alaskan Knights, shared his thoughts on the team’s objectives and their synergy with the GCL’s vision, “With the global chess market poised for significant growth, we at Punit Balan Group are committed to elevating India’s prominence in the sport.”
“The Global Chess League perfectly aligns with our vision. It provides the much-needed commercialization and global platform for chess to flourish. Our team, the PBG Alaskan Knights, aims to inspire and engage a wider audience in India, showcasing the excitement and strategic brilliance of chess.”
Plans & Hopes for the Upcoming Season
The PBG Alaskan Knights are entering Season 2 with high aspirations. Beyond aiming for victory, the team is focused on fostering a positive and supportive environment.
“We want to create a culture where players are not just motivated to win, but also feel a deep sense of belonging,” Punit Balan explained. “We are building a family within the team, where everyone feels valued and supported.”
This holistic approach is expected to bring out the best in each player and contribute to the team’s overall success.
The Future of Chess in India & Globally
PBG is not just focused on the present, they have a clear vision for the future of chess, “We envision a future where chess captivates and unites people across the globe,” Punit Balan shared.
“In India, we see tremendous potential for growth. We are committed to supporting grassroots initiatives and nurturing young talent. Globally, platforms like the Global Chess League will play a crucial role in expanding chess’s reach. We are excited to be part of this journey and contribute to the evolution of chess worldwide.”
The PBG Alaskan Knights are more than just a chess team, they represent a movement.
With their talented players, strong leadership, and commitment to the growth of chess, they are set to make a lasting impact in the Global Chess League and beyond.
As they charge into Season 2, the world will be watching, eager to witness their strategic brilliance and unwavering spirit.