V Anand's second, SS Ganguly on the World Championship

Vishy's second, SS Ganguly tells MiD DAYday what happened behind the scenes at World Chess Championship

Surya Shekhar Ganguly knows a thing or two about V Anand and the way he prepares and approaches each game. The 27-year-old was Anand's 'second' at Bonn in 2008 and also assisted him in the victorious campaign in Sofia where Anand overcame Veselin Topalov.

Currently ranked in the top 100 in the world, Ganguly gave MiD DAY a few insights into how Team Anand approached the World Championship.
Excerpts:

How was the experience of working with Anand?
It is always great to work with him, as there is always something to learn. Also, Anand and Aruna is an incredible couple. Aruna takes care of everything and we have to focus solely on chess.

How did the team react to Anand's loss in the first game?
We were quite upset but recovered soon and started working for the next game. As usual, Anand was very
composed.

The fourth game was a much-debated one. Was Anand's move a blunder or a piece of brilliance?
Winning twice in the Catalan in games two and four was great. Anand was just flawless in the fourth game. It was so nice to see him play like that. Truly, a magnificent performance. However, Topalov was fighting every game and eventually he struck back and managed to put immense pressure.

What was the strategy for the last game with Anand playing black?
We prepared a very solid line and were looking initially for a draw and take it from there. The players also reached an equal position and that's when Topalov started to overstretch.

How was the bond and spirit within the team?
I think it is like a family now, as we were all together from Bonn. We have become very good friends and did not have a single fight on any issue. It was a great atmosphere to work harmoniously in and no one gets tired in such a healthy team. We share jokes, listen to music and work.

Can you throw some light on the role of a second in the team?
We basically work on new ideas and system in openings. There is no fixed work routine but somehow we just can't stop working for Anand.
Most of the time we used to work late night and catch up on sleep when Anand would go to play.

You missed defending your title at the Asian continental meet...
This is far more important for me than playing there. Working with Anand has helped my chess and my rating has increased.
Most importantly, my attitude towards chess, dedication and discipline has gone to a different level just being with him.

How do you compare the Bonn match with this one?
I think this one was more difficult. Topalov plays aggressively and has a wide range of openings which makes it very difficult to anticipate and prepare.
After the long journey, Anand lost the first game and the rest of the matches were fought till the end.u00a0
Since both played fighting chess, it is understandable that some mistakes crept in. Personally, I loved the fourth and the 12th games.