I helped Vaishali with openings, provided her motivation: Pranesh

Chess is said to take a toll on the players mentally. It is here the role of a second or sparring partner becomes crucial, and M. Pranesh performed it rather well for World championship challenger R. Vaishali.

The 19-year-old Grandmaster from Karaikudi was brought on board to not only help Vaishali game-wise but also keep things light during the FIDE Candidates in Cyprus.

“It was very crucial. Pranesh made sure that I was not getting tense, and his presence was valuable,” Vaishali, who won the tournament to fight with China’s Ju Wenjun for the world title, said on her arrival.