Jon Speelman: The Caissic hunt of the Centaur

Computers continue to shape the way chess is played, studied and understood, but they also present challenges for humans trying to assert their creativity at the board. This month’s column highlights two recent encounters where human ingenuity met silicon precision: Wesley So’s victory over world champion Gukesh Dommaraju at the Sinquefield Cup (pictured), and Ian Nepomniachtchi’s resilient defence against Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu at the 2024 Candidates in Toronto. Both games illustrate the tension between preparation, psychology and practical decision-making. | Photo: Lennart Ootes / Grand Chess Tour