Chhattisgarh's Paridhi Lilhare upsets WGM Swati Ghate in national women’s team chess

Raipur: Paridhi Lilhare, representing Chhattisgarh B, pulled off the biggest upset of the ongoing CM Chhattisgarh Trophy National Women’s Team Chess Championship by defeating experienced Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Swati Ghate of LIC in the fifth round on Friday.

Lilhare’s victory headlined a day of high-intensity matches held under the aegis of the Chhattisgarh State Chess Association and the All India Chess Federation. In other major results, Petroleum Sports Promotion Board (PSPB) strengthened its claim for the title with a commanding 3-1 win over Airports Authority of India (AAI). Lilhare, playing with black pieces, opted for the Sicilian Defense. Despite Ghate’s rating of 2021 and years of international experience, the young local player maintained a balanced position through the opening moves.

Lilhare built steady pressure during the middle game and executed a precise endgame to secure the full point. PSPB dominated the top boards against AAI. WGM Mary Ann Gomes secured a victory against WGM Priyanka Nutakki using the Sicilian Defense, while IM Padmini Rout played out a strategic draw against WIM Arpita Mukherjee in a Queen’s Gambit Declined. Crucial wins by IM Nisha Mohota and FM Prishita Gupta ensured a 3-1 victory for PSPB.

Other Round 5 results include Telangana A defeated West Bengal A by 2.5-1.5, Andhra Pradesh B defeated Tamil Nadu by 2.5-1.5, Maharashtra A vs Telangana B remained draw, Andhra Pradesh C defeated Gujarat A by 3.5-0.5. LIC vs Chhattisgarh B match remained draw, Chhattisgarh A defeated Himachal Pradesh C by 4-0.