New Delhi, July 31 -- Following a brilliant comeback run, Grandmaster Nihal Sarin, representing S8UL Esports, a global powerhouse in esports and gaming content, has qualified for the Chess playoffs at the ongoing Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, according to a release from S8UL.

After a tough 0-2 loss to fellow Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi on Day 1 of the group stage, Nihal made a strong comeback on Day 2. Showcasing his lightning-fast decision-making, he secured a 2 - 0 victory over Dutch Grandmaster Anish Giri in the lower bracket semi-final. In the lower bracket final, the 21-year-old faced French Grandmaster Maxime Vachier-Lagrave. Despite being in a difficult position in the first game, he salvaged a draw t...