ECO code: A12
English Opening: Anglo-Indian Defense, King's Knight Variation c6 3.b3
Moves: 1. Nf3 Nf6 2. c4 c6 3. b3
This variation is characterized by White's early fianchetto of the queen's bishop with 3.b3, aiming to exert pressure on the central and queenside dark squares from a safe distance. By preparing to develop the bishop to b2, White supports control over the long diagonal and influences the central squares indirectly.
From White's perspective, this move is more positional and flexible rather than overtly attacking or defensive. It seeks to build a solid but dynamic setup, controlling the center without immediate pawn confrontation. Black’s setup with ...c6 supports a stronghold over the d5 square, preparing for a potential ...d5 advance, so the battle for the center remains a key theme.
While the opening does not involve an immediate direct attack on the center, it aims for subtle central control through piece pressure and pawn structure. White refrains from early central pawn pushes, instead focusing on piece development and long-term central influence.
This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.