Zerodha’s Nikhil Kamath ‘cheats’ to win charity chess match against Vishy, tweets apology

On Sunday, the Indian chess field was shocked when five-time world champion Anand was defeated by Kamath, who made near perfect moves. “It is ridiculous that so many are thinking that I really beat Vishy sir in a chess game, that is almost like me waking up and winning a 100mt race with Usain Bolt,” Kamath tweeted. Continuing further, he said: “I had help from the people analysing the game, computers and the graciousness of Anand sir himself to treat the game as a learning experience. This was for fun and charity. In hindsight, it was quite silly as I didn’t realise all the confusion that can get caused due to this. Apologies.” On his part, Anand tweeted: “Yesterday was a celebrity simul for people to raise money. It was a fun experience upholding the ethics of the game. I just played the position on the board and expected the same from everyone.” 

Whether it is a charity or the world title match, Anand takes each game seriously. Those who have watched him at the Tal Chess Club decades ago would recall how Anand would never agree for a draw. It is always a fight to finish. Later replying to Anand’s tweet, Kamath said: “It was just a fun game we amateurs were playing to raise funds for charity. But still gives no excuse for what I did. It was wrong and I sincerely apologise.”