'Chess May Look Cheap But It's Expensive': Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa

Indian chess Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa, who recently competed at the FIDE Candidates in Canada for the first time, stressed on the need for corporate sponsors in the sport, where training may seem "easy and cheap" but in reality its "very expensive". Praggnanandhaa, who enter a long term sponsorship agreement with Adani Group earlier this year, is currently in Poland participating in the Rapid and Blitz tournament. Talking about his time in Canada, he said, "The experience was very good. It is a big tournament where the pressure is huge.

In terms of the result, I played better than I scored. I must learn from what went wrong and focus on future tournaments."

This preceded his maiden Grand Chess Tour, in what kickstarts a packed schedule for the Grandmaster. "The Grand Chess Tour starts with the Rapid and Blitz tournament in Poland in May. Then there is the Superbet Romania classical tournament from June 24 to July 6. The Saint Louis Rapid and Blitz in August will be followed by the Sinquefield Cup, which is a classical tournament."

The excitement and eagerness to participate at the highest levels is palpable. "This will be my first time, so I am very excited. Apart from that, I'm also playing the Norway Chess in May and the Real masters in Switzerland," revealed the 18-year-old.

Praggnanandhaa said his journey can only be successful if there is a strong support system backing him. This is because training to be the best is not a walk in the park. To his, and his family's relief, the Adani Group became a pillar of strength.

"The Adani Group has been amazing. Chess training may look easy and cheap but it's a very expensive sport due to all the travel and paraphernalia. That's why I am grateful for the support. The