Anand's absence will be felt but India capable of putting up good show at Olympiad: Harikrishna

Viswanathan Anand's absence from the Indian team will make a big difference, the young players are ready to carve out a niche for themselves at this year's Chess Olympiad. Five-time world champion Anand decided not to participate this time but he will be guiding the Indian team at the showpiece event to be held from July 28 to August 10. "India has a very good team this time around. Obviously, not having (Viswanathan) Anand is going to make a big difference. That said, this side has a perfect mix of young and experienced players and we are capable of doing really well," said Harikrishna during a virtual press conference.

Read AlsoIndia 'B' team capable of podium finish in Chess Olympiad: Coach Ramesh

The 'B' team, seeded 11th comprises Nihal Sarin, D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa, B Adhiban and Raunak Sadhwani, all Grandmasters, and Ramesh believes if the players can keep their focus during the 11 rounds of the Olympiad, beginning at nearby Mamallapuram on July 28, they can finish on the podium.

The 36-year-old, who is currently in the form of his life, having emphatically won the Prague Chess Masters last month, said the victory will give him an enormous amount of confidence before the showpiece event. "The win at the Prague Masters could not have come at a better time. I hope to continue the same form and emulate my performances for India this time and contribute to the team's success," Harikrishna said. "This will be my 10th Chess Olympiad appearance since 2000. It has been a memorable journey so far and a sheer honour to represent my country for so long. As a senior player, I have a big responsibility and, as always, I am geared up to give my best for my country," he added. Treating this Olympiad as any other OlympiadFor