The Chess Olympiad is one of the most prestigious events in the chess calendar, and controversy has cast a shadow over it. However, India and Uzbekistan, both strong contenders in the Olympiad, will continue their battle for glory.

Vladimir Kramnik said that he is not targeting the Indian team or ChessBase but phones ‘must not be allowed’ in the playing area.

The draw ensures that India will head into the final two rounds of the Chess Olympiad with a slight advantage over the chasing pack — India have 17 points while the Uzbek team has 15.

The Indian men's team are top of the standings, and the women's second, with two rounds to go. What are their chances?

The Vietnamese men's chess team held England to a 2-2 draw in the ninth round of the 45th Chess Olympiad 2024, which was held on the early morning of September 21.

A measure of India’s dominance at the Chess Olympiad is that all four of the Iranians had not lost a single match at the Olympiad. In Round 8 against India, Iran was introduced to defeat thrice.

Speaking to Chess24.com, Kramnik stated that he did not say that the phones were being used in the chess hall but their existence wasn't allowed

International Master Vantika Agrawal's crucial victory secured a 2-2 draw for India against the US in the 45th Chess Olympiad. Despite some setbacks, Indian women remain in strong contention. The Indian men stayed in sole lead but will face a crucial match against the US next.

Vladimir Kramnik said: "It is absurd when FIDE forbids pens and disqualifies (players) for a sim card WITHOUT a phone but allow phones without a sim card."

In Round 9 of the Chess Olympiad 2024, the Indian mens team drew 2-2 against Uzbekistan, while the womens team was held by the USA to a 2-2 tie. Both teams displayed resilience, with key performances by GM Gukesh,