Gukesh not sharp with White, escapes with draw in Game 5

World champion Ding Liren lets the Indian challenger off the hook; match tied at 2.5-2.5 points each

- Susan Ninan

There are certain days when as a chess fan you miss what Magnus Carlsen brought to a World Championship. Game 5 of the World Championship match between reigning champion Ding Liren and Indian challenger D Gukesh on Saturday was one such.

Incidentally, it was the birthday of the Norwegian world No.1 and five-time world champion, who walked away from the World Championship two years ago. With the Black pieces, Ding had an advantageous position with almost no risk but was content to agree to a quick draw after 40 moves.

Carlsen, in Ding's position, would have grinded it out until his opponent pleaded for dear life. It's what a battle for chess' ultimate prize is supposed to be - ruthless, sparing no moves and a fight to the death. Gukesh was only relieved with the draw and took half a point for it. The match stays tied at 2.5-2.5 points with nine classical games remaining.

In the press conference that followed, Ding, to some surprise, revealed that he did not realise that he had an advantage. "I just tried to play my best, but somehow settled for a draw."