Fiji’s rising chess stars proved they can hold their own on the world stage, as Team Fiji wrapped up the 2024-2025 Global Chess League season ranked 27th out of 77 international clubs.
The team impressed with wins over clubs from the UK, China, South Africa and Hawaii, drawing once and experimenting with new talent along the way.
In a statement released yesterday volunteer official Goru Arvind said the introduction of students Lionel Vaurasi of Yat Sen Primary School and Aarush Ahalawat of Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School was part of a bigger plan.
“Exposing our younger players to international opponents is part of our long-term plan to contribute to their confidence and learning curve,” he said.
The season’s highlight was a 5.5-2.5 victory over the higher-ranked North Staff Knights of the UK, where captain Avinesh Nadan defeated Harry Gardiner 2-0 on Board 1, and steady performances followed from Yash Krishen Maharaj, CM Rudr Prasad and CM Goru Arvind.
Against China’s Shenzhen Pengcheng Chess Club, Fiji clawed back from early losses through strong showings by CM Ronald Terubea and CM Rudr Prasad, ending in a 2-2 draw.
The team’s final match was a tough 1.5-8.5 loss to Philippines Finest, who fielded a Grandmaster.
“Online chess is a unique sport that allows us to face-off with international opponents without the burden of travel,” Arvind added.
The league is an online favourite, hosted by Peter Hornsby of England and featuring clubs from over 30 countries including China, Serbia, South Africa, Mexico and New Zealand.
Fiji’s matches were also broadcast live with commentary from Hornsby and South African coach Andrew Horne, drawing over 137,000 online views.
