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.
Queen's Indian Defense: Kasparov-Petrosian Variation, Modern Variation
This line arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 b6 4. a3 Bb7 5. Nc3 d5 6. cxd5 Nxd5. The Queen's Indian Defense is a solid and flexible opening choice for Black, aiming to control key central squares indirectly and develop harmoniously.
Characteristic of the move 4. a3: This is a preparatory move by White that prevents Black’s bishop or knight from jumping to b4, a common pin or pressure tactic against White’s knight on c3. It also supports a potential b4 expansion later, helping White gain queenside space.
In this variation, Black challenges the center with ...d5 and recaptures on d5 with the knight, aiming for active piece play rather than a purely defensive setup. White’s central presence with pawns on d4 and pieces well-developed supports a solid control of the center.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, the setup is generally more positional and controlling, focusing on maintaining central tension and space. Black’s play is somewhat flexible but leans toward solid development and counterattacking chances, rather than immediate aggressive attacks.
Center Control: Both sides contest the center, but Black’s ...d5 and recapture with the knight marks a direct challenge to White’s central control. White’s pawns and pieces support the center firmly, so the opening involves a balanced fight over central squares rather than a one-sided attack.
You can also discover how top players used Queen's Indian Defense: Kasparov-Petrosian Variation, Modern Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.