Gashimov's Benoni

Vugar Gashimov has played the Modern Benoni three times thus far at Linares.  He has acheived a break even score in those three games with a draw against Gelfand in round 1, a win over Vallejo in round 5 and a loss to Grischuk in round 8.  Does Gashimov's use of the Benoni prove that it is a 2700+ quality opening?  Or is there reason to worry about the soundness of the Benoni?

I am excited by Gashimov and the Benoni.  Modern Benoni games display fighting chess.

It is important to note that Gashimov has only employed the Benoni after 3 Nf3, which is considered the safe form (along with 3 g3 c5).  I expect that if white played 3 Nc3, Gashimov would play the Nimzo-Indian.  The Modern Benoni does become extremely risky when white is allowed the Taimanov Variation.

I want to see an article investigating this.

Yep he played the Benoni, what he didn't achieve is to equal in any of the games. Just fought not to lose, and received a gift in form of victory from Paco Vallejo, the games were amazing but especially for white pieces

I think he also played benoni against Aronian in last round 1/2 1/2

May the Gashimov Memorial bring us exciting games.

#pride

One of the best Gashimovs game with Benoni: http://www.chessgames.com/perl/chessgame?gid=1578063
Gashimovs had 63% winning in Benoni.