Anand draws with Svidler to remain joint third

Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand missed out on some fine chances and drew with Russian Peter Svidler in the seventh round of the 10th Tal Memorial International chess tournament here. The draw did not help Anand bridge the gap as it turned out to be a dull day in the $200,000 tournament with all the games ending draws. As a result, Ian Nepomniachtchi of Russia remained the sole leader, on 5 points, enjoying a half point lead over second-placed Anish Giri of Holland. Anand shares the third spot on 4 points along with Russian Vladimir Kramnik and Levon Aronian of Armenia. Svidler and Li Chao of China have 3.5 points and Shakhriyar Mamedyarov remained eighth on 3 points.