Why did D Gukesh refuse to draw early in game 8? The great Indian teacher explains

D Gukesh has revealed the reason why he chose not to go for an early draw in Game 8 of the World Chess Championship against Ding Liren on Wednesday, December 4. The match between Gukesh and Liren would end in a stalemate after 51 moves, but the Indian grandmaster was given the option to shake the defending champion’s hand early.

After move 41, The option of another draw through a triple replay was proposed to Gukesh.but he chose to continue playing. At the press conference, the Indian grandmaster said that he did not believe he was in a difficult situation at the moment. Gukesh said he thought he would have some chances then, but admitted he ultimately misjudged his position.

“I would have gotten the tie if I had thought it was worse, but it wasn’t like that. I had to be very precise, I missed one of your resources. I’m not very sure. “I think the position had more tricks.”

“In the position I didn’t replay, I didn’t think I was in much danger. I always thought that with his weak king and my strong pawn on b3, I should have played. I thought maybe I might even have some chances. But that’s okay, Yes, it was just a miscalculation of the position,” Gukesh said.

This was the second time in the series. that Gukesh decided not to tie early.

Gukesh pays tribute to the team

Gukesh would also pay tribute to his team and his deputy Grzegorz Gajewski for the work done so far. The Indian grandmaster feels that with the help of his team they have been able to surprise Liren in the openings.

“My team has been doing a great job, not only ‘Gaju’ (Grzegorz Gajewski), but also other members of the team. We managed to surprise him in the openings. I would like to thank my team and hope that more interesting ideas will emerge. “Come” Gukesh said.

Wednesday’s tie was the fifth in a row between the two in 8 games so far. Both men are tied 4-4 at the moment and Game 9 will take place on December 5.