Anish Giri Leads She Plays to Win Women to Unlikely Chess Victory 2026

In a stunning turn of events, Anish Giri, the world No 11, led the She Plays to Win (SPTW) Lionesses to an unlikely victory in the Four Nations Chess League (4NCL). The all-female team, which had won successive promotions to the first division, was expected to be outclassed in the top flight. Instead, they proved to be the revelation of the opening weekend of the new season.

Anish Giri Joins She Plays to Win Lionesses

SPTW, a charity dedicated to helping girls and young women play chess, had hoped to continue without male players in the 2026-27 season. However, the league upheld its rule, introduced to promote women's chess, that top division teams must include at least one player of each sex. SPTW's manager, IM Lorin D'Costa, who also serves as the England women's coach, took the bold step of hiring Anish Giri, the Netherlands No 1 and world No 11, for the opening two fixtures.

Giri is the highest-rated player to compete in the 4NCL for several seasons. The Netherlands' top female player, IM Eline Roebers, also joined the team. Their presence immediately raised the profile of the event and the team's chances.

Giri's Crushing Victory

Giri won his opening game in crushing style last Saturday, defeating GM Alexander Cherniaev in just 24 moves with a direct attack on his king. The elite GM had done his homework, as Cherniaev, 57, who learned his skills in the former Soviet Union, has been vulnerable to tactical slugfests throughout his career. Roebers also scored in 26 moves, again with a direct attack on her opponent's king. However, SPTW's lower boards conceded too many points, and the team found themselves in a tight match.

The Impact of Anish Giri's Leadership

Anish Giri's presence not only boosted the team's performance but also brought significant attention to women's chess. His participation highlights the growing support for gender equality in the sport. The SPTW Lionesses' victory demonstrates that with the right mix of talent and determination, mixed-gender teams can compete at the highest level.

The team's success is a testament to the charity's mission. By including a world-class player like Giri, SPTW has shown that women's chess can attract top talent and achieve remarkable results. This victory is likely to inspire more girls and young women to take up the game.

Key Takeaways from the 4NCL Opening Weekend

• Anish Giri secured a crucial win in just 24 moves, showcasing his tactical prowess.
• Eline Roebers also won her game in 26 moves, contributing to the team's success.
• The SPTW Lionesses defied expectations by winning in the top division.
• The league's mixed-gender rule played a key role in the team's composition.
• The victory highlights the growing competitiveness of women's chess.

Comparing Anish Giri and Eline Roebers

FAQ

The She Plays to Win Lionesses' victory, powered by Anish Giri's stellar performance, marks a significant moment in chess history. It underscores the importance of inclusivity and the potential for mixed-gender teams to excel. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on this remarkable team.