So we finally know the identity of Anand’s new challenger. As good as Boris Gelfand is, I think it’s fair to say that Vishy won’t exactly be quaking in his boots. After all, with Mr. Gelfand at #16 in the world rankings, it’s the equivalent of Rafael Nadal facing Richard Gasquet in a Grand Slam Final. And all of this is a shame, because The Blues Brothers is one of my favourite films.
Boris Gelfand, World #16
The manner of Gelfand’s qualification – and of the competition as a whole – has been the subject of much debate, the short comfortable draws being the main bone of contention. But you won’t find any complaints from this end. I actually find it very pleasing that the world elite have finally made the considered decision to play like Robert Bellin.
