Fiji’s Online Chess Team has launched into the 2025-2026 Global Chess League with impressive vigor and performance, marking a significant chapter in their online chess journey. This year’s tournament features an extensive roster of 744 players from 65 chess clubs worldwide, hailing from diverse nations such as England, Australia, India, Armenia, Pakistan, Libya, Italy, China, Brazil, Iran, Ukraine, and Romania.
Led by captain Avinesh Nadan, Team Fiji has made a strong impact by amassing 92 points over the initial three rounds, placing them 23rd in this competitive international landscape. Candidate Master (CM) Goru Arvind described the league’s high-intensity atmosphere, which is characterized by a rapid format of five minutes per game, with an additional two seconds allocated for each move. He emphasized the physical and mental demands of participating in consecutive matches for a full hour, highlighting the need for players to quickly reset their focus and maintain sharp concentration.
Key players have emerged for Team Fiji, with CM Arvind leading the charge by accumulating 55 points, while captain Nadan has contributed an additional 37 points. Their individual rankings stand at 39th and 78th respectively among all competitors, affirming their prowess in this challenging field.
The team’s promising start not only illustrates their potential but also indicates Fiji’s strengthening presence in the global chess community. With strong performances from its players, Team Fiji is poised to continue making strides in the online chess arena, showcasing the nation’s dedication to excellence in this strategic game.