Vishwanathan Anand welcomed premier India spinner R Ashwin’s move to buy a chess team in the Global Chess League. The Tamil Nadu spinner bought the stakes of the American Gambits in a joint venture with Tech Mahindra and the International Chess Federation.

The team is owned by business tycoons Prachura PP, Venkat K Narayana, and Ashwin. It will replace Chingari Gulf Titans  in the upcoming edition.

The Indian chess legend took to X to welcome Ashwin in his own style and wished him good luck on entering the world of chess.

“Congratulations @ashwinravi99 on your exciting new venture into the world of chess! As someone who has bowled out the best in cricket, I’m sure you’ll bring the same competitive spirit to the Global Chess League with the American Gambits. May your rooks and bishops be as unstoppable as your off-spinners! Best of Luck in London! @GCLlive Vetri kodi kattu Malaigalai muttumvarai muttu Lathchiyam ettum varai ettu Padaiyedu padaiyappa!,” Ashwin said in a post on X.

Congratulations @ashwinravi99 on your exciting new venture into the world of chess! As someone who has bowled out the best in cricket, I’m sure you’ll bring the same competitive spirit to the Global Chess League with the American Gambits. May your rooks and bishops be as…

— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) July 8, 2024

The Global Chess League will feature six teams that will participate in the second edition of the event in London, slated to run from October 3 to 12.

“We’re thrilled to introduce the American Gambits to the chess world. With a blend of strategic brilliance and unwavering determination, our team aims to redefine the game. As co-owner, I’m excited to witness their journey and contribute to their success,” Ashwin was quoted as saying in a media release.

The other five franchise included in the league are Alpine SG Pipers, PBG Alaskan Knights, Ganges Grandmasters, defending champions Triveni Continental Kings and Mumba Masters.