India’s women’s chess team is poised to make history, entering the final round of the Chess Olympiad 2024 with a strong chance to clinch the gold medal. The team’s hopes are fueled by the stellar performance of Divya Deshmukh, who delivered a decisive victory in the 10th round against Ni Shiqun on the third board at the SYMA Sports and Conference Centre in Budapest, Hungary. This marked Divya’s seventh win of the tournament, solidifying India’s position in the race for the top prize.
Meanwhile, the team’s other stars, Harika Dronavalli, Vantika Agrawal, and R. Vaishali, fought valiantly, securing draws against their respective opponents. This ensured India remained tied with Kazakhstan at 17 points each, setting the stage for a nail-biting final round.
As the tournament approaches its climax, the final round holds immense significance. The gold medal scenario is as follows:
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If India wins:
India is highly likely to secure the gold medal, unless Kazakhstan achieves a significant victory (3.5-0.5) over the USA.*
If India draws and the USA wins:
The USA will likely take the gold, surpassing India.*
If India draws and Kazakhstan wins:
Kazakhstan will clinch the gold medal.*
If India draws and Kazakhstan also draws with the USA:
India will almost certainly secure the gold.*
If India loses:
India will be eliminated from contention for the gold medal.The final round, scheduled to begin at 2:30 PM IST on Sunday, will determine whether India can transform its impressive performance into a historic gold medal victory. All eyes will be on the Indian team as they strive to make history in Budapest.
