ECO code: A21
English Opening: Kramnik-Shirov Variation, 3.g3 Bxc3 4.bxc3
This opening arises after the moves 1.c4 e5 2.Nc3 Bb4 3.g3 Bxc3 4.bxc3. Here, White fianchettoes the kingside bishop while Black exchanges the bishop for the knight on c3 early. The recapture with the b-pawn (4.bxc3) gives White a strong central pawn presence and opens the b-file for potential rook activity.
Characteristic: The hallmark of this variation is White's doubled c-pawns, which paradoxically strengthen control over the central d4 and b4 squares, supporting a flexible pawn center. White aims for central influence combined with kingside fianchetto pressure.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this line is more strategic than outright attacking, focusing on solid central control and positional pressure. Black, having given up the bishop pair early, often adopts a counterattacking stance, trying to challenge White’s center and exploit the pawn structure.
Center Control: Yes, this opening emphasizes control of the center. White uses the pawns on c4 and c3 to reinforce d4 and maintain spatial advantage, steering the game towards central tension and flexible development.
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: Kramnik-Shirov, 3.g3 Bxc3 4.bxc3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 3 - Move #9 white