The Najdorf Explained (introduction)

Hello. I have decided to start posting blogs on my blog about the Najdorf Variation of the ever-so-popular Sicilian. This variation is used by numerous chess powerhouses, including Bobby Fischer, Garry Kasparov, Viswanathan Anand, the list goes on and on!

I have used this variation exclusively, and personally, I believe that this variation of the sicilian is one of the safest sicilians to play. However, if one is to master the Najdorf and use it successfully in competition, they have to be prepared to learn all of the theory on the Najdorf. That's why I have slightly reduced the theory by combining the Najdorf with another great sicilian defense, the Scheveningen. The Scheveningen was Kasparov's favorite opening, but he realized that the Keres Attack brought heavy losses for black.

Here's the Scheveningen, Keres Attack.

Because of this feared attack, most Scheveningen advocates would prefer playing the Scheveningen using the Najdorf move order. Here's the first few moves of the Najdorf.

Over the next few weeks I will discuss white's main options against the Najdorf including: 6.Bc4, 6.Be3, 6.Be2, 6.Bg5, 6.f4, 6.g3, and some of white's other tries, including 6.Rg1, 6.h3, and 6.Bd3. My main goal in writing this compilation is that my fellow readers will be well armed in facing the Najdorf, and using the Najdorf themselves. This is where I stop today. Have a good day and remember, if you want to be a good chess player, keep practicing!

Bibliography: Play the Najdorf: Scheveningen Style