Chekhover Sicilian
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| Chekhover Sicilian | |
|---|---|
| Moves | 1.e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Qxd4 |
| ECO | B53 |
| Named after | Vitaly Chekhover |
| Parent | Open Sicilian |
| Chessgames.com opening explorer | |
The Sicilian Chekhover Variation is a chess opening named after its most famous practicioner Vitaly Chekhover.[1] Although the Chekhover Variation is rarely played in grandmaster games, it is actually not uncommon among amateurs.[2] White avoids modern opening theory on move three - stating never to move the queen out early in the game as it is a target in the center. The move order goes 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Qxd4?![3]
[edit] Responses for Black
Black's main response to the Chekhover Variation is the obvious looking 4...Nc6 attacking White's queen, however, there are many more to choose from.
- 4...Nc6 - The most popular response
- 5. Bb5 - Pinning the knight: 5...Bd7 6. Bxc6 Bxc6
- 5. Qa4?! - Avoiding an exchange and keeping the light squared bishop
- 4...a6 - Preventing a future pin: 5. c4 Nc6 6. Qd1
- 4...Bd7 - Preparing for 5...Nc6
- 4...Nf6 - Avoiding exchanges and continuing development

