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.
Indian Defense: Anti-Grünfeld, Basman-Williams Attack
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. h4
This opening is a sharp and somewhat unusual attempt by White to challenge Black’s kingside fianchetto setup early on. The characteristic move 3. h4 aims to disrupt Black’s plan of developing the bishop to g7 and castling kingside safely.
Characteristic: The move h4 is aggressive and provocative, preparing to advance with h5 to challenge Black’s pawn structure and restrict Black’s kingside development.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this is an attacking approach, seeking to dictate the pace and create immediate pressure on Black’s kingside. Black, on the other hand, must respond carefully and can play either solidly or counterattack in the center.
Center Control: While White does not directly occupy or contest the center with this move, the Basman-Williams Attack indirectly supports central control by aiming to weaken Black’s kingside, thus making central counterplay more difficult for Black. The battle for the center remains important, but White’s focus here is on active piece play and disrupting Black’s setup.
You can also discover how top players used Indian Defense: Anti-Grünfeld, Basman-Williams Attack to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.