Arjun Erigaisi, Nihal Sarin advance to Esports World Cup 2026 quarterfinals

Indian chess players Arjun Erigaisi and Nihal Sarin have advanced to the quarterfinals of the Esports World Cup 2026 after winning their last-bracket qualifier matches. The two remain in contention for what could be India's first-ever podium finish at the tournament.

Their progression came as grandmaster Ian Nepomniachtchi was knocked out of the competition. With both Indian players still in the running, chess enthusiasts across the country are closely following their performances at the event.