Anand has better temperament and experience: GM Dibyendu Barua

Vishwanathan Anand is poised to defend his title against Magnus Carlsen in Chennai in November (Getty Images)

India’s second Grandmaster, Dibyendu Barua, has said he feels World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand will have the advantage of a better temperament and match experience when he defends his title against Norwegian challenger Magnus Carlsen in Chennai in November.

Barua said the only factor that might bother the world chess champion would be the relatively “big” difference in ratings. Rarely has a World Chess Championship title match seen such a big difference in rating points between the two players. It is a difference of 87 points going by the current rating of Anand (2775) and Carlsen (2862).

“A difference of 10 rating points is considered big at this level. This may be a cause of concern for Anand and may weigh on him psychologically that his challenger is ahead of him in terms of rating,” Barua, who is also a vice-president of the All India Chess Federation said.

“The chess World No. 1, who at one point reached 2872, looks more formidable than even the legendary Russian World Chess Champion Gary Kasparov. Many expect him to reach 2900 very soon. Anand is a bit off-colour these days and appears to be struggling in his recent performances,” Barua said.

“There may be a couple of factors bothering Anand, but one must remember that there are many strong points that will keep Anand ahead on his home turf. His temperament is outstanding and he has the experience of winning the title five times,” Barua said.

“Anand is very meticulous in his preparation and is a much transformed player when he is playing for the title. It will be interesting to see how Carlsen, who is playing in the World championship clash for the first time, tackles the intense pressure of the 12-game format,” he said.

Barua said the first couple of games would be crucial. “Anand cannot afford his young opponent any allowance and should take charge right from the beginning. Carlsen who is diligent does not believe in any spectacular opening. But he prefers to take the game in the comfort zone where he is unflinching in his attack,” Barua, who will be at the venue to see Anand defend his title, said.

News and quotes courtesy Agencies