ECO code: B90
Opening Name: Sicilian Defense: Najdorf Variation, Adams Attack
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 a6 6. h3
Description: The Adams Attack is a subtle and less common approach against the Najdorf Variation of the Sicilian Defense. The move 6. h3 is characteristic for its prophylactic nature; it prevents Black’s pieces, particularly the knight or bishop, from pinning or occupying the g4-square. This move also prepares White to develop the bishop to e3 or g5 without harassment and can support a potential future g4 pawn push, aiming for kingside space and attacking chances.
Characteristic: The move h3 is primarily a preparatory and positional move, aiming to control key squares and restrict Black’s piece activity rather than immediate confrontation.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this is a flexible move that leans toward a strategic, positional buildup rather than direct attack or pure defense. It supports a potential attacking setup on the kingside while maintaining central control. For Black, it signals White’s intent to limit Black’s piece activity, so Black must be ready to counter in the center or on the queenside.
Center Control: Yes, this opening continues to contest and control the center. White’s pawns on e4 and d4, supported by knights on c3 and d4, maintain strong central presence. The h3 move complements this by securing key squares and preparing for further development without relinquishing central 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 Sicilian Defense: Najdorf Variation, Adams Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #9 black
You can also discover how top players used Sicilian Defense: Najdorf Variation, Adams Attack to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.