NEW DELHI: The Global Chess League is back for its much-anticipated third season, and Alpine SG Pipers are set to compete with a formidable lineup.
This season, the team combination includes proven champions as well as exciting new talent. Adding to the excitement, this season will mark the league’s first-ever edition in India, a global hub for chess and home to a growing base of passionate fans, from December 13-24.
Leading the Pipers into the new season are R Praggnanandhaa, last season’s Player of the Season, and Hou Yifan, the current World No.1 women’s player, both retained by the franchise following phenomenal performances last season. Their experience, consistency, and star power will act as the foundation of the team.
Additionally, Alpine SG Pipers have also announced four high-profile additions to their roster, strengthening the team with a blend of international experience and youthful talent.
Fabiano Caruana, the American Grandmaster and former World Championship challenger, joins as the team’s Icon Player. Anish Giri, one of the most consistent super-GMs on the circuit, signs on as Superstar Men, while Nino Batsiashvili, a top talent from Georgia, joins as Superstar Women. India’s Leon Luke Mendonca, a rising star known for his aggressive and resourceful moves, will join the team as a Prodigy.
Speaking on the team’s lineup for Season 3, Grandmaster Pravin Thipsay, Coach of Alpine SG Pipers, said, “We are very pleased with the team we have assembled for the upcoming season. Fabiano Caruana, one of the strongest players in the world today, will bring great depth as our Icon Player.
“R Praggnanandhaa continues to impress at the highest level and has already shown his ability to compete with the very best. Anish Giri’s consistency and experience add further strength, while Hou Yifan remains the leading figure in women’s chess with her remarkable achievements. Nino Batsiashvili comes in with an Olympiad gold to her name, adding proven success on the international stage, and Leon Luke Mendonca represents the promise of India’s next generation. Overall, this is a solid and balanced team, and I am confident we are capable of producing an excellent season.”