R. Praggnanandhaa was in a spot of bother against Javokhir Sindarov but the Indian defended well to secure a draw. Arjun Erigaisi gained an early advantage against Shamsiddin Vokhidov and had his chance in the final moves but couldn't press through.

India held its two-point lead in the open section after drawing the ninth-round match against the defending champion Uzbekistan at the Chess Olympiad 2024 on Friday at the SYMA Sports and Conference Centre in Budapest,

India have never won gold in past editions of the Chess Olympiad, their best result being a bronze on two occasions, but find themselves in an ideal position to end that long wait in the 45th edition in Budapest.

The Indian men's team are top of the standings, and the women's second, with two rounds to go. What are their chances?

International Master Vantika Agrawal's crucial victory secured a 2-2 draw for India against the US in the 45th Chess Olympiad. Despite some setbacks, Indian women remain in strong contention. The Indian men stayed in sole lead but will face a crucial match against the US next.

India, on sole lead with 17 match points, remains in a commanding position for the gold in the Open section and will face USA in Round 10 on Saturday