R. Praggnanandhaa was in a spot of bother against Javokhir Sindarov but the Indian defended well to secure a draw. Arjun Erigaisi gained an early advantage against Shamsiddin Vokhidov and had his chance in the final moves but couldn't press through.

Speaking to Chess24.com, Kramnik stated that he did not say that the phones were being used in the chess hall but their existence wasn't allowed

Vladimir Kramnik said: "It is absurd when FIDE forbids pens and disqualifies (players) for a sim card WITHOUT a phone but allow phones without a sim card."

India are still the table leader with a two-point lead over the US in the open section at Chess Olympiad 2024, while the women’s team is second, one point behind Kazakhstan, with two more rounds to go.

The Indian open and women’s teams were held to 2-2 draws in their respective ninth round matches at the Chess Olympiad 2024 in Budapest on Friday. While the open team drew against defending champions Uzbekistan,

Vladimir Kramnik said that he is not targeting the Indian team or ChessBase but phones ‘must not be allowed’ in the playing area.

A senior AICF official said that a "contingency plan is in place" and that "a replacement trophy" has already been ordered for the current edition

India, on sole lead with 17 match points, remains in a commanding position for the gold in the Open section and will face USA in Round 10 on Saturday