ECO code: A15
Opening Name: English Opening: Anglo-Indian Defense, 2.g3 g6
Moves: 1. c4 Nf6 2. g3 g6 3. Bg2 Bg7
Description: This line of the English Opening features a double fianchetto setup, where both White and Black develop their bishops to g2 and g7 respectively. White’s 2.g3 is characteristic of a hypermodern approach, focusing on controlling the center from a distance rather than occupying it immediately with pawns. Black mirrors this by fianchettoing their bishop with 2...g6, aiming for a solid and flexible setup.
Characteristic: The key characteristic of this opening is the emphasis on long diagonal control via the fianchettoed bishops. Both sides prepare for a positional battle, controlling central squares indirectly and maintaining flexibility in pawn structure and piece placement.
Playing Style: For White, this setup is generally more positional and can lead to attacking chances on the flanks or through central tension later in the game. For Black, it is mostly a solid and somewhat defensive stance, aiming to neutralize White’s early spatial advantage and counterattack when the opportunity arises.
Center Control: This opening does not involve immediate occupation of the center by pawns. Instead, both sides exert pressure on the central squares from a distance, delaying direct confrontation and focusing on piece development and control.
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 a selection of puzzles from real positions in games that used the English: Anglo-Indian, 2.g3 g6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #9 black