Grandmasters like Anand,Karpov,Kasparov,Topalov and Kramnik has tried this variation in the Sicilian defence.

we know the Sicilian starts with 1.e4 c5 and normally we move or expect Nf3 as white's 2nd move.But in Alapin variation it is c3.

With his 2nd move c3 white's plan is to maintain a strong centre with 3.d4

Black should be vigilant!He is to counter strongly for the centre2....Nf6 or 2...d5 is considered good !

now let us study the various lines of the Alapin variation...members please join the forum

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