The Modernized Anti-Sicilians volume 2

Black is forced to make an immediate decision on move 3 and wait for the right moment to open the position.
On top the author created practical difficulties for the Black. Naturally, it is not possible to find an advantage in every variation but Ravi added many detailed explanations to guide plans and aid understanding in the various positions White encounters.
Ravi’s analysis makes Black’s path to equality extremely narrow.
Finally, it was important to also consider the less popular second moves (2…g6, 2…a6, and 2…Nf6). In particular, both 3.c3 and 3.c4 against 2…g6 were examined.
The latter transposes to an Accelerated Dragon, which the author can justify including in an Anti-Sicilian book as he believe it’s correct to enter an ‘Open-Sicilian’ type position if it benefits anyone. This approach has been emphasized across both volumes and it is made especially clear in the chapter against 2…g6.

In this second and final volume of the Anti-Sicilian series, the author covers all alternatives to 2…Nc6.
The Moscow variation is the only critical alternative to 3.d4 that has caused any concerns for Black, and the author’s choices in this variation were mainly selected by their ability to create practical difficulties for the opponent. Against 3…Nd7, the author analyses two distinct options, either castling immediately or first playing 4.a4.

Against the solid 3…Bd7, the author offers two choices of achieving central control. 5.c4 aims for a more positional Maroczy structure, whereas the alternative 5.0-0 transforms the position into a French advanced-type structure.
The author also analyzes a second option for 3…Nc6 – 6.h3 instead of 6.c3 – to limit Black’s piece activity by suppressing the scope of the c8-bishop.
The author has also analyzed both 3.c3 and 3.g3 against 2…e6.

Finally, the author examines the less popular second moves, 2…g6, 2…a6, and 2…Nf6, and includes an Accelerated Dragon variation, which can benefit the player. Despite the delay in releasing this second volume, the author believes that this Anti-Sicilian series will provide a strong lifetime repertoire and a foundation to respond to future theoretical developments.

• Casa editrice Thinkers Publishing
• Code 8205
• Anno 2023
• Pagine 370
• Isbn 9789464201871