Candidates Chess: Vaishali downs Divya Deshmukh to share lead

Vaishali Rameshbabu seized the lead in Cyprus with a stunning 31-move victory over Women's World Cup champion Divya Deshmukh, showcasing brilliant rook sacrifices. She now shares the top spot with China's Zhu Jiner. Meanwhile, Anish Giri upset Fabiano Caruana in the open section, narrowing the gap with leader Javokhir Sindarov.

Apr 9, 2026 0

Candidates Chess: Vaishali downs Divya Deshmukh to share lead
Vaishali Rameshbabu seized the lead in Cyprus with a stunning 31-move victory over Women's World Cup champion Divya Deshmukh, showcasing brilliant rook sacrifices. She now shares the top spot with China's Zhu Jiner. Meanwhile, Anish Giri upset Fabiano Caruana in the open section, narrowing the gap with leader Javokhir Sindarov.
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