ECO code: A16
English Opening: Anglo-Indian Variation, 2.Nc3 g6 3.g3
This line arises after the moves 1.c4 Nf6 2.Nc3 g6 3.g3 Bg7 4.Bg2 O-O 5.e4. It is a flexible and strategically rich variation where White fianchettoes the kingside bishop and then strikes in the center with e4. The characteristic feature of this setup is White’s combination of flank control with the c4-pawn and timely central expansion with e4, aiming to challenge Black’s control of the center.
Characteristic: The setup combines classical English Opening ideas with a direct claim on the center by pushing e4 after completing piece development and kingside fianchetto. It blends positional understanding with a slight central thrust.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this line is generally attacking or at least assertive, as White actively contests the center and prepares to launch central and kingside initiatives. Black’s setup with ...g6 and ...Bg7 is solid and often somewhat hypermodern, aiming to control the center from a distance and counterattack later, making Black’s stance more defensive or reactive in the early phase.
Center Control: Yes, this opening does attack the center. While the English Opening often starts as a flank opening, in this variation White quickly challenges the center with e4, signaling a direct fight for central space and 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.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the English: Anglo-Indian, 2.Nc3 g6 3.g3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #9 black