SHOCKING: Candidates chess sharp and stable gukesh stays strong contender - You Need To See This

PUNE: Regardless of the result in the 11th round scheduled on Wednesday night in the Candidates chess in Toronto, D Gukesh will remain in contention to win the Challenger spot. The 17-yearold Tamil Nadu boy has displayed remarkable hunger and tenacity to be joint leader with stalwart Ian Nepomniachtchi of Russia.

"The Indians have shown that they belong to the chess elite with their play in this event. Gukesh, in particular, has been impressive with his ability to bounce back," GM and chess coach Abhijit Kunte told TOI. Gukesh had suffered a setback when he lost to below-par Alireza Firouzja in the seventh round of the 14-round double round robin event. But he won the next game with black pieces against Vidit Gujrathi.