Coming soon, a Global Chess League

By Team Newsable | First Published Feb 22, 2021, 6:54 PM IST

The sport of chess is played all over the world and originated in India. The nation has produced many grandmasters, including young ones, while Viswanathan Anand is one of the most renowned grandmasters. Meanwhile, Tech Mahindra is launching the Global Chess League.

In what could be considered a revolution in the sport of chess, IT giant Tech Mahindra is all set to launch a new chess league, which would be one-of-its-kind. Named the Global Chess League, it would be the first-of-its-kind physical and global chess platform.

In a bid to make it famous, Tech Mahindra has joined forces with renowned Indian grandmaster and chess legend Viswanathan Anand. Together, they would look to promote this all-new version of the sport to popularise it and draw players and viewers around the globe.

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The main focus of the GCL would be to produce a new breed of chess players. Using cutting edge technologies, like 5G, artificial intelligence and virtual reality, Tech Mahindra is looking to innovate new ways to promote the game globally.

“Chess is a game that is played by millions around the world. At this time, a unique opportunity exists to popularize it further and dramatically enhance its visibility through a global league powered by technology. I am personally happy to partner with a technology provider like Tech Mahindra, whose endorsement and promotion will certainly elevate the sport to a higher level and offer the right platform to popularize chess across the globe. There is a renewed interest in the game of chess and through this unique global league format, we will be able to keep the spirit of chess intact and ensure the right platform is provided to upcoming talent,” said Annand in an official statement.

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According to the statement, the GCL will have players from all levels, while there would be eight franchises. The players would be of mixed genders, including juniors and some wild card entries, while it would all be played in the Round Robin format before the knockouts start with the semis. Also, efforts are being made to introduce innovative scoring, board selection methods and a fantasy league, as further details regarding the structure are to be announced soon.

“Chess has many synergies with the business world, with its emphasis on intellect, strategy and mental rigor. By leveraging Tech Mahindra’s expertise in new-age technologies like 5G and Virtual Reality to drive fan engagement and viewership globally, we can truly transform chess into an e-sport. Furthermore, this global chess league will help us create an exceptional and inspirational experience by bringing the game home to global fans,” concluded Tech Mahindra CEO and MD, CP Gurnani.

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