Harika Holds Karpov in Cap d’Agde Chess Tourney

Indian chess Grand Master Harika Dronavalli produced an inspiring performance to hold former world champion Anatoly Karpov on the fourth day of the 14th Anatoly Karpov Rapid International Chess Tournament.

However, she could not end the day blemish free and lost to Bacrot Etienne in her second game here on Monday.

Starting in white pieces in her round seven game against Russian Karpov, Harika began on an attacking note and matched her opponent move by move.

But she couldn't capitalise on her bright start and Karpov brought all his experience into play and staved off a strong challenge to escape with a draw in the game which lasted for 51 moves.

In the second game, she was up against the local favourite Etienne Bacrot. Harika, the World No.5 who had already lost to him once in tournament went into the tie seeking retribution. However, the Frenchman proved to be the better player and walked away with a hard fought victory.

Harika is currently fifth on the points table and will next take on Spaniard Sabrina Vega Gutierrez and local lad Matthieu Cornette. She will have to try and take maximum points from the outings to keep her hopes alive of making it to the knock-out stages.