Date:30/11/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/11/30/stories/2008113059871400.htm

Sport - Chess

Keen contest on cards

NEW DELHI: There is very little to choose between India and Armenia on the eve of their three-match Friendship (under-21) chess series.

When the action commences at the Russian Centre here on Sunday, Armenia enjoys the rating advantage on each of the four boards. But the Indian camp is relying purely on the form of its players to come out stronger.

Indians will get white pieces on the first and third boards in the second round on Monday. The colour-order for the third and final round on Tuesday will be decided following draw of lots.

First-round pairings (with ratings): Zaven Andriasian (2,561) vs. Abhijeet Gupta (2,536); Hrant Melkumyan (2,541) vs. S. Arun Prasad (2,530); Avetik Grigoryan (2,513) vs. G. Rohit (2,457); Samvel Ter-Sahakyan (2,495) vs. B. Adhiban (2,438). — Special Correspondent