A battle of nerves

Anand gears up for battle of nerves with Kramnik
New Delhi, October 06, 2008
First Published: 15:05 IST(6/10/2008)
Last Updated: 15:09 IST(6/10/2008)

Viswanathan Anand says his upcoming World Championship match against Russia’s Vladimir Kramnik would be a battle of nerves because his opponent is as well prepared as he is for the showpiece event.

Anand, who is giving undivided attention to his match preparation since April, will defend his World Champion title against Kramnik in Bonn, Germany from October 11.

“Well, it’s a challenge you have to enjoy it and give it your best. I have prepared well. I guess there is no better way to answer this question,” Anand told PTI from Madrid, Spain.

“I have done both, a physical regimen as well as extensive work. Since it’s a 12-game match keeping the nerves till the end will be very important. Stamina and mental fitness will also be something I will be working on,” he said.

Anand said he also took care to relax during tournaments.

“I generally try and relax during tournaments also by watching movies, going to the gym or just taking a long walk. Now I’m just getting ready for the match,” he said.

The 38-year-old Indian ace, who slipped out of the FIDE’s top-3 after more than a decade in the latest rankings earlier this month, was not unduly bothered about the dip and said he was focusing on match preparation than anything else.

Source: http://www.hindustantimes.com/