MUMBAI, NOV 22: An air of uncertainty prevailed over proceedings on the eve of the Sahara Asian Sub-junior Chess Championships at the Avion Hotel, here today. At least 22 boys and 12 girls are expected to participate in the 11-round Swiss league Championships, but only a handful had arrived till late in the evening.

Tejas Bakre, the top-rated Indian Elo 2340 was yet to arrive. He could be seeded second as Khamrakulov Ibrohim of Uzbekistan 2340 can take the pride of place. Only five foreigners — three from Kazakhastan and two from Uzbekistan — have arrived so far.

Among the Indians — five boys and five girls — four are not yet sure of their participation as they could be used in case of an odd number of entries. Bakre, depending on his arrival, SS Ganguly and Mahesh Chandran are sure of playing. Soundarrajan Kidambi and Prathmesh Mokal are expected to squeeze in.

Aarthie Ramaswamy, JE Kavitha and Yogita Yewle are the confirmed entries. Shraddha Samani and Manasi Dadarkar are hoping for luck to turn in their favour with odd entries.

While Uzbekistan have come with a strong contingent, including Ibrohim and Yusubelieva Sevara. Kazakhastan has come with a young side of three players, two of whom are barely into their teens.

As such, it provides a great opportunity for the Indians to do well and follow the example of their country-mates who did well in the Asian Junior championships at Jaipur.

With an IM norm and Fide Master title for the winner, there is good enough encouragement too. With only 12 expected, the girl’s event could be an all-play-all championship.