Chess: League action set for Nairobi today

KCB Bank will be aiming to maintain their lead at the top of this year’s Kenya Premier Chess League when action resumes today at the Charter Hall, Nairobi after a one-month break.

The 2018 runners up lead the table with 30 points after winning ten matches, three more than defending champions Equity Bank who are second with one game in hand.

In an interview with Standard Sports, KCB captain Ben Magana said they were ready for the weekend matches.

KCB will be playing against newcomers Mombasa Chess Academy, Daystar University and Black Knights Chess Club

“We are looking forward to maintain our unbeaten run and increase the lead at the top of the table.

“However, we have to be careful since we don’t have a big lead against the defending champions,” said the Candidate Master.

Equity Bank, also unbeaten, has the chance to catch up with the leaders if they win all their three matches against Victoria Chess Club, Nairobi Chess Club & Academy and Anchor Chess Club.

“We have had a perfect start in the league and we look forward to maintaining our unbeaten run and try to keep pace with KCB,” said Equity Bank captain John Mukabi.

However, Mukabi said they will be wary of new comers Victoria from Kisumu and Anchor.

“Our opponents are tough compared to last year and I expect the team to be at its best since we have to play catch up with KCB if we are to defend our title this year,” he added.