ECO code: A13
English Opening: Anglo-Indian Defense, King's Knight Variation e6 3.b3 d5
Moves: 1. Nf3 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. b3 d5
This variation of the English Opening features a flexible setup by Black with ...e6 and ...d5, aiming to challenge White’s control of the center while maintaining solid development. White’s 3.b3 prepares to fianchetto the bishop on the long diagonal, supporting the central and queenside squares.
The characteristic of this move order is that Black strikes directly at the center with ...d5, contesting White’s c4 pawn and trying to equalize space, while White adopts a more positional stance focusing on piece placement and control of key diagonals.
From White’s perspective, this setup is more positional and controlling rather than outright attacking. Black’s ...d5 is a central counterattack, so Black takes a more assertive, semi-open stance aiming to challenge White’s central influence.
Overall, this opening does involve central tension: Black actively contests the center with ...d5, while White’s b3 and eventual bishop fianchetto help influence the center indirectly. Thus, both sides are engaged in a strategic battle over central control rather than immediate attacks.
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.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the English Opening: Anglo-Indian Defense, King's Knight Variation e6 3.b3 d5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #22 black