Laxman has sole lead in Thakur International Rating Chess tourney

Mumbai, Apr 24 (UNI) International Master R R Laxman defeated compatriot S Kutwal in a complex game to become the sole leader with five points after the fifth round of the Thakur International Rating Chess Tournament being played here today.

Following him closely was WIM Bhagyashree Thipsey along with six others on second place with 4.5 points. Bhagyashree today beat the highly rated player of West Bengal Somak Palit.

Laxman opted for the solid Ruy Lopez defence with Black pieces against Kutwal. In a complex game the latter sacrificed a Knight for three pawns, but the former returned the pieces in time and won efficiently.

In another interesting match, International Master Neeraj Kumar Mishra lost to another International Master Sriram Jha in Bogo Indian Defense. Mishra committed early inaccuracy and Sriram Jha imbalanced the position and played an excellent Endgame to win in 35 moves.

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