Zhu beats Vaishali, catches up with the Indian at the top

In what was one of the most important games in the Women’s Candidates chess tournament, Zhu Jiner defeated sole leader R. Vaishali with black pieces in the 12th round at Pegeia, Cyprus, on Sunday. With the win, Zhu has caught up with her Indian rival at the top of the table.

They both have seven points each, going into the final rest day on Monday. Half-a-point behind them are Bibisara Assaubayeva and Anna Muzychuk, with two rounds remaining.