India’s Koneru Humpy and Divya Deshmukh played out a hard-fought draw in Game 1 of the FIDE Women’s World Cup final in Batumi, Georgia, on Saturday.
In a game which lasted over three hours, Divya held the early advantage with some creative play with the white pieces, before her experienced compatriot clawed her way back.
Soon, the 19-year-old Divya was forced into a time scramble as Humpy exerted pressure with some calculated moves, particularly with her Queen and Rooks.
AS IT HAPPENED – Koneru Humpy vs Divya Deshmukh GAME 1
Humpy pushed for a draw through three-fold repetition as the game headed into the end game. But, Divya refused the offer, as she altered her line.
But, soon after the 40-move mark was achieved, the two shook hands for a draw after another repetitive attack from Humpy.
“I agree [I came out of a very complicated position]. It was quite a complex game. I knew I was out of danger after h5 [16th move]. I think she just prepared based on my game which I played earlier. I misplayed in the opening, and she got a big advantage. It was not too risky for her to not take the draw in that first scenario,” said Humpy after the game.
The second game of the final will happen on Sunday, with Humpy wielding the white pieces. The tiebreaks are scheduled for Monday, if needed.
The third-place playoff, between Chinese GMs Tan Zhongyi and Lei Tingjie too ended in a draw.
