Sindarov draws with Bluebaum at Candidates Tournament

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbek grandmaster Javokhir Sindarov drew his second-round game at the Candidates Tournament against German grandmaster Matthias Bluebaum.

Bluebaum opted for a solid defensive setup, and the game developed in a მშვიდ and balanced manner from the outset. In the early stages, Sindarov had an opportunity to press for an advantage but chose a more cautious continuation, allowing his opponent to equalize.

Both players proceeded carefully, avoiding significant risks, and the position remained level into the middlegame. Following a series of exchanges, the game was agreed drawn on move 42.

After two rounds, Sindarov has collected 1.5 points. In the next round, he is set to face Indian grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, one of the contenders for the top spot in the standings.

Sindarov had earlier made a strong start to the tournament, defeating Andrey Esipenko in the opening round. In the Women’s Candidates Tournament, all games in round two also ended in draws.

The Candidates Tournament is being held in Cyprus from March 29 to April 15. The winner will earn the right to challenge reigning world champion Gukesh Dommaraju for the world title.