Parimarjan Negi, Katreyna Lahno all set for the battle of sexes

New Delhi, Dec 16 (UNI) Parimarjan Negi beat Katreyna Lahno to become the world's youngest Grandmaster five months ago and the 13-year-old is hoping to repeat the performance when he takes on the youngest ever Woman Grandmaster in the Amity Grandmasters Challenge starting tomorrow.

''I will try to play my best. She is a very strong player and the European Women's champion. I start as a slight favourite but these kind of matches can turn on the final day too,'' Parimarjan told reporters at the inauguration of the 10-day event.

The first of its kind championship to be held in India will see the two young stars play six games each in the classical, rapid and blitz format.

Parimarjan said playing the classical form after becoming a GM would be the toughest challenge for him.

''I have played classical before. But after becoming GM, this will be the first time I will play this format. And it's a totally different ball game. I have to play six games against the same opponent and this will be difficult,'' he said.

''I have been preparing quite hard for this event for quite some time and playing here will give me valuable match practice for future tournaments,'' he added.

Meanwhile, clad in a black saree his opponent is just happy to be in India and apart from chess, she is also planning to go shopping to add some more six-yard drapes to her wardrobe.

''I am so happy to be in India and look forward to an exciting clash with Parimarjan,'' the 16-year-old said.

''Saree is so beautiful and its comfortable as well. I will buy some more,'' she added.

The opera singer, who likes snakes, remained mum about her preparations and said her strategies would be there for everyone to see when she takes on the Indian.

''Let's keep that part a secret for now. Of course I have worked hard and I have my plans but I will reveal them only after I am done with my games,'' she said with a smile.

An Andriy Shevchenko fan, Katreyna says she likes to keep track of football and her illustrious compatriot.

''I like him. He is a great player. I try to follow the game in whatever time I get,'' she said as she revealed her admiration for the former European Player of the Year.

UNI PM DH HS1807