ECO code: A17
English Opening: Anglo-Indian Variation, 2.Nc3 e6 3.g3
This opening arises after the moves 1.c4 Nf6 2.Nc3 e6 3.g3. White adopts a flexible setup, fianchettoing the kingside bishop to g2, aiming to control the long diagonal and support central and queenside influence.
Characteristic: The move 3.g3 is characteristic of the English Anglo-Indian systems, where White prepares a solid and hypermodern stance, controlling the center from a distance rather than occupying it immediately with pawns.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this setup is primarily positional and flexible, often considered more defensive or preparatory rather than aggressively attacking right away. Black, meanwhile, can choose to challenge the center actively or develop calmly depending on their response.
Center Control: White does not directly occupy the center with pawns early on but exerts pressure on central squares via piece control and the fianchettoed bishop. This approach reflects a hypermodern strategy of controlling the center indirectly.
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 e6 3.g3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 6 - Move #5 black