Would like to see IPL-style chess league in India: FIDE Vice-Prez Short

The 54-year-old revealed he had made a proposal for such an event three years ago but couldn’t take it forward. “There is tremendous enthusiasm and love (for the game) in India. I would like to see a tournament similar to IPL in chess. I think the past instance was a lost opportunity – both for players and the chess-loving public,” said Short, who interacted with titled players in the ‘Short Circuit’ programme organised by Chesslang.com.

Despite India being home to only 64 GMs – a relatively smaller number compared to powerhouses like Russia (256) and the United States of America (101) – the Brit remarked the nation could easily become the dominant chess force in a decade’s time. “I pluck the year 2030 out of the air. India has that potential and this is the birthplace of chess. Forget about the history, this is where the future lies.”

Turning 50 in five days, five-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand is well past his prime and hasn’t exactly aged like fine wine. But Short complimented the Indian ace for his remarkable longevity in the game.

“I have known Vishy for many years. He has had such little decline, he is still among the top players in the world. It shows the amount of dedication and perseverance he has,” he showered Anand with praise.

Referring to chess as a “young person’s game”, Short stressed one can’t expect the greats to go on indefinitely. “People reach peak form like they do in other sports – which is usually in their 20s or maybe 30s. Even cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni loses his touch after some time (laughs). The best in the business can’t produce things day in and day out,” added Short.

During his two-day visit to Chennai, the Leigh-based former player lectured a host of upcoming talent and members of the chess fraternity. On Thursday, a “fascinated” Short gave a few pearls of wisdom to local GMs and International Masters, answering questions posed by budding players beyond the allocated time.

“It (morning session) was great and interesting. I enjoyed it to be honest. They are all strong players but with different degrees. Even the weakest player of the lot looks very good. The players maybe would have picked up one or two things which I said,” he told reporters.